Ms Howie, CEO of the Scottish Ambulance Service, and Mr Watson, CEO of Wood, were among the winners at the national final of the Director of the Year Awards on Friday night.

Ms Howie was named Public Sector Director of the Year and Mr Watson was named Large Business Director of the Year.

Malcolm Cannon, national director of IoD Scotland, said: “In a challenging business environment, taking time to recognise excellence, hard work and passion is vitally important.

“There is no doubt that the future will bring more obstacles for businesses and their leaders to overcome, however, it is inspiring to see the efforts made by Pauline and Robin be recognised at a national level.

“Having a clear vision whilst being true to yourself as a leader is integral and I commend the efforts that both recipients have made – and will no doubt continue to make – within their organisations.”

Jonathan Geldart, director general of the IoD, said: “I would like to congratulate all of our award winners, each of whom have shown dedication, ingenuity, and leadership, inspiring those around them.

“Better directors make for better businesses, which is to the benefit of the economy and society as a whole. The judges had a tough job on their hands picking the first among equals, with all of our finalists standing as beacons of excellence from every corner of the UK.

“It is undoubtedly a challenging time to be a director, making the achievements of our winners all the more impressive. The IoD is here to support leaders through the turbulence, but equally we think it is crucial to shine the spotlight on those who continue to raise the bar for British business despite the circumstances.”