Julian Baume, HR Manager at Thompson Smith & Puxon, was invited to speak at a seminar held on 29th January 2008 in Ipswich, looking at the role of HR in organisations regionally. The seminar was organised by Pure Resourcing Solutions, a leading independent recruitment consultancy for professional services.

The event was an informal opportunity to share experiences and best practice in the field of human resources. The event also raised £250 for the local charity EACH (East Anglia's Children's Hospice).

Overall the seminar proved to be a great success and the feedback from delegates was that it was a really interesting and useful event. "We were delighted to have such a diverse mix of delegates and speakers who really made the topic their own and we hope to run many similar events in the future." commented Lynn Walters, Director of Pure Resourcing Solutions.

Julian Baume, HR Manager at Thompson Smith & Puxon, said: "The role of human resources has become much harder over recent years, particularly with the increasing complexity of employment laws and the constant "war for talent". Employers need to be able to provide much more in terms of career opportunities, training, benefits and flexible working."

Apart from Julian Baume, the two other speakers were Sarah Meelan, Director of HR and Estates at the University Campus Suffolk and Caroline Cotterell, newly appointed HR Director of Grampion Country Foods (formerly Group HR Manager at Green King). The conference was skilfully chaired by Brian England, Head of the Colchester and Ipswich Group for the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development).