Scotland’s best in business scoop Director of the Year Awards
Scotland’s top directors have been honoured at this year’s Institute of Directors Scotland Director of the Year Awards, celebrating individuals’ business achievements in 2016, at the Crowne Plaza Glasgow.
15 top executives have collected Director of the Year Awards, honouring the best in business across nine key director categories and six regional categories, after a record number of nominations were received.
The IoD Scotland Director of the Year Awards went to:
Passing comment on the three Director of the Year Award winners, the judging panel, which was chaired by Raymond O’Hare, owner of OCSolutions and previous Chair of IoD Scotland, said: “We were impressed by Hydro Group’s growth in turnover and profit at a time when the Aberdeen economy has been weak. Douglas has led the business through successful structural change, and driven investment in export markets.
“Jennifer at TEFL Org UK has combined her personal skills, enthusiasm and talent to bring out the absolute best in her staff, achieving sustainable and socially-aware growth in a difficult market. Against challenging international circumstances she has built both the company and profitability.
“Tom Campbell is leading a truly innovative business model. The North Coast 500 has economic sustainability and growth at its heart. His accomplishments in creating from scratch a world-renowned tourist destination that brings visitors to enjoy one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland is a tremendous achievement.”
IoD Scotland Director of the Year Awards were presented in a further six categories:
The Scottish category winners will also have a shot at the prestigious UK Director of the Year Awards, which take place in London, in September.
The Awards reflect the diversity of business life in Scotland, with categories for big business, SMEs, charities and the public sector and applaud those individuals whose creativity, leadership or innovative business practices have led to success for their organisation and the communities they serve.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, Keith Brown MSP, said: “The Scottish Government is committed to supporting sustainable business growth, and fostering a fairer and more prosperous Scotland. The Institute of Director’s Scottish Awards provides an annual opportunity to showcase the innovation and excellence of Scottish companies that underpins growth in our economy and which I see regularly as I visit companies across Scotland. It is only right that we continue to celebrate their achievements and I congratulate all those nominated tonight.”
As well as the main categories, two discretionary awards were made:
Individual awards were made across the six regions:
David Watt, Executive Director of the Institute of Directors in Scotland, said: “Although a diverse group, all the award winners share certain characteristics. They are all effective and dynamic leaders, full of ambition and creativity, which is exactly what we need at the top of our businesses and organisations, particularly at the moment, when strong leadership can remain a constant driver of performance amid overwhelming change inflicted by external forces.
“With a 25 per cent boost in the number of entries this year, it’s pleasing to see so many businesses recognising and valuing good leadership, and thriving across a diverse range of industries and sectors.
“And this year we have once again been shown exceptional business success across the board - whether this has been achieved by leading success in turnover growth, taking an organisation from local to global, innovating and creating world class products, excelling in customer service or creating opportunities and having a positive impact on communities – this year’s crop of directors is living proof that Scotland is in an excellent position to compete on the global stage.”