Award-winning businesswoman and entrepreneur Hilary Devey is to share the secrets of her success as she takes centre stage at this year’s prestigious Thames Valley Business Awards.
As founder and chief executive of Pall-Ex, Devey revolutionised the pallet distribution industry in the UK in the mid-1990s, creating a business network which now boasts revenues of some £100 million.
Awards chairman David Murray, said: “We’re thrilled that Hilary Devey will be joining us as guest of honour and host for our awards evening. Many will recognise her from Dragons’ Den, where her support, advice and guidance for those starting out in business is invaluable.
“Hilary’s determination to succeed and the way she was brave enough to self-fund her business when she was unable to secure financial backing, make her an inspiration to each and every one of us.
“Here in the Thames Valley we know there are many excellent businesses, high achievers, entrepreneurs and innovators who have the ability, the acumen and the expertise to follow in her footsteps. This is their chance to shine and we can’t wait to hear from them.”
Entries for the 2012 awards have just opened and organisers want to attract the brightest and the best companies in the region. Now in their 18th year, past winners include Symantec, SDL, GCS and Wireless Logic.
This year two new categories join the line-up – the Green Progress Award, sponsored by Grundon Waste Management, will be looking for businesses who demonstrate true commitment to the sustainability agenda, while The Best Use of Technology is being recognised by leading technology expert Pulsant.
Other categories include the most dynamic business and the best company to work for, while management teams will be given the chance to show why they deserve a pat on the back for their leadership skills. The SME category celebrates the success of the sector in the Thames Valley, while the overall business of the year award puts the spotlight on consistent performance, profitability and support for the wider community.
In addition to the prestige of receiving an award, many past winners say the achievement has brought added dividends with clients, employees and partners.
Oliver Tucker, managing director of Wireless Logic, which won Dynamic Business of the Year 2011, said: “Being recognised by The Business Awards is a huge fillip to the commitment of our people and this, amongst other accolades in the last 12 months, has meant a great deal to our growing team. The awards have been good for us and for our business.”
Chris Bartlett, founder and managing director, of GCS Recruitment, a double winner in 2010, said: “The subsequent benefits for GCS from winning these awards have been twofold. They have certainly helped with our profile amongst more senior managers in the Thames Valley region and they have also played their part in attracting new employees to GCS.”
The full list of categories for 2012 is:
Entries close on September 21 and the awards will be presented on Thursday, November 15, at the Royal Berkshire Conference Centre, Madejski Stadium, Reading, when around 300 of the region’s business leaders and top companies are expected to attend.
Enter online at www.businessawards.co.uk or email linda@elcot.co.uk for further information.
