Business

High noon deadline looming for Women in Business Awards

Women in Business chief executive Roseann Kelly
Women in Business chief executive Roseann Kelly Women in Business chief executive Roseann Kelly

WITH the deadline for entries for the fast approaching, Women in Business is calling on entries for its eighth annual awards ahead of the deadline on Monday October 1.

The 2018 Women in Business Awards, in partnership with communications provider Virgin Media Business and supported by the Irish News, will celebrate the hard work, achievements and passion of business women and entrepreneurs across the north.

This year’s awards will be held on Thursday November 8 at the Belfast Crowne Plaza.

And Women in Business chief executive Roseann Kelly is encouraging entrepreneurs and women from the corporate sector to consider nominating themselves or a colleague for one of the 11 awards on offer, three of which offer individual and corporate level sectors.

She said: “The Women in Business Awards are a wonderful opportunity for the business sector to come together to celebrate the achievements of women here in Northern Ireland and formally recognise their valuable contribution to our local economy.

"It is essential that we acknowledge success and encourage each other to strive to reach our full potential as businesses, leaders and communities.”

Chairperson of Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, Carmel McKinney OBE, was awarded the Outstanding Leadership and Management Award in 2017.

Commenting on the benefits of winning, Carmel said: “Receiving the award really gave me that extra resilience and determination to continue to help other females as best I can to strive to reach their full potential on their leadership journeys."

Irene McAleese from See Sense was awarded Best Small Business in 2017 and Best Start Up for her business, Knowledge Economy, in 2014.

Speaking on her achievements, she said: “Receiving these recognitions has encouraged me to continue to strive for further success. My professional profile has raised in the business community and with investors. There were also terrific networking opportunities with other finalists which have been key for business growth.”

Seamus McCorry, head of sales and pre-sales in Northern Ireland for Virgin Media Business, said: “We don't believe in girl jobs and boy jobs – just job opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender.

"We're thrilled to be working with Women in Business as we build a diverse and gender-balanced workforce which reflects our customers and the communities we serve and ensures our people can be their best selves at work.”

:: The closing date for awards submissions in 12 noon on Monday 1st October. Places are limited so early booking is recommended. To find out more or to submit your application visit www.womeninbusinessni.com.