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Suffolk Chamber welcomes new patrons Scrutton Bland and Halo Service Solutions

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Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has announced the addition of Halo Service Solutions and Scrutton Bland as new patrons, expanding its network of influential local businesses.

The big picture: Halo Service Solutions brings expertise in IT service management solutions, while Scrutton Bland, established over 105 years ago, provides accountancy and tax advice. The new patrons will work closely with the Chamber to champion local business interests, provide insights, and support initiatives that benefit the wider community.

Emma Clifton, John Dugmore and Steven Burgess
Emma Clifton, John Dugmore and Steven BurgessScrutton Bland

What they're saying: Paul Hamilton, CEO of Halo Service Solutions: "We are thrilled to join the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce as patrons. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do, and this partnership gives us the opportunity to connect with and support the vibrant business community in Suffolk."

Emma Clifton, Business Advisory Partner at Scrutton Bland: "Becoming a patron of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is an exciting step for us. We share a common goal of championing local businesses."

HALO's Paul Hamilton and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce CEO John Dugmore
HALO's Paul Hamilton and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce CEO John DugmoreSuffolk Chamber of Commerce

John Dugmore, Chief Executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, described both organisations as "leaders in their fields" and said their expertise would strengthen the Chamber's support for local businesses.

The bottom line: The addition of these two established firms as patrons signals a strong start to the year for Suffolk Chamber and provides members with access to additional expertise in technology and finance.

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Local data protection firm gains national recognition for AI innovation

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The DPO Centre's pioneering work with Live Facial Recognition technology has earned the company a place on the shortlist for a prestigious industry award.

Why it matters: The nomination highlights the firm's expertise in privacy-compliant AI technology development, with The DPO Centre  now competing in two categories in the International Compliance Association (ICA) Awards.

The data protection specialist has been shortlisted for Compliance Consultancy Firm of the Year, recognising its groundbreaking Live Facial Recognition project with Reveal Media, which the firm says sets new standards for privacy-compliant AI technology.

The DPO Centre team by a lake
The DPO Centre teamThe DPO Centre

The company is also celebrating staff member Pippa Scotcher's nomination in the Rising Star category for her "exceptional contributions to the field."

"I'm thrilled to be shortlisted - it's an absolute privilege to be recognised among such talented professionals," she said.

What they're saying: Rob Masson, CEO at The DPO Centre, said: "It's an honour to be shortlisted for not one, but two categories at this year's ICA Compliance Awards. This recognition reflects our dedication to excellence in compliance and our commitment to nurturing outstanding talent in the industry."

He added: "The LFR project with Reveal Media is a testament to our ability to provide unparalleled support in an evolving privacy landscape, and Pippa's nomination reaffirms the strength of our amazing #ONETEAM."

What's next: The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Park Plaza Westminster, London, on June 26, 2025.

The bottom line: The nominations recognise the firms' technical innovation and talent, reinforcing the company's position in the evolving data protection and privacy compliance space.

The DPO Centre

The DPO Centre is one of the UK's foremost data protection companies, delivering expert privacy advice and skilled resources to organisations across the globe.

Ed Sheeran surprised more than 200 Ipswich students with an impromptu performance at The Baths

Browse upcoming gigs

Check out upcoming BTC events across their three brilliant venues

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