2. Biz Network DEC JAN 35-66.qxp_Chamberlink 29/11/2022 10:49 Page 44
CHAMBER NEWS
CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS
After a difficult few years, awards are a reason to celebrate C
elebration was in the air as the East Midlands Chamber Business Awards returned to Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire throughout November. Gala dinners were held in partnership with headline sponsor Mazars at the King Power Stadium in Leicestershire on 4 November, Reach Pride Park in Derbyshire on 11 November and Nottingham Belfry in Nottinghamshire on 18 November. Hundreds of people turned out at the three ceremonies, which recognised 150 finalists across 13 categories – ranging from Excellence in Innovation and Environmental Impact at organisational level through to individual honours for Entrepreneur of the Year and Apprentice of the Year – in each county. An overall Business of the Year title was also awarded to Katapult in Derbyshire, Copley Scientific in Nottinghamshire and Scope Construction in Leicestershire. Winners were chosen by a judging panel of the Chamber’s senior leadership and board of directors, as well as sponsors. Scott Knowles, chief executive of the Chamber, said: “The past few years have been challenging for our business community, and yet we continue to see so many shining examples of business success across our region. It’s always important to celebrate these achievements and shout about the great things happening right here in the East Midlands. We know it is a fantastic place to do business and these organisations – many of which have worked together to maximise their impact within their sectors and communities – are doing a wonderful job. “Later this month, the Chamber will launch a Business Manifesto for Growth in the East Midlands and Beyond in Parliament that illustrates how our region is a Centre of Trading Excellence. Our Business Awards are full of companies that are living proof of this.” Each of the three ceremonies at the Chamber's Business Awards were hosted by comedian Patrick Monahan. Raffles held at each awards raised £5,075 for Chamber president Lindsey Williams’ three chosen charities this year – Focus, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Treetops Hospice. 44
business network December 2022/January 2023
Chamber president Lindsey Williams
Lindsey, chief executive of Coalville-based housing association Futures Housing Group, added: “Behind every nominee and winner whose name will go up in lights are people and organisations that are truly delivering for the region. Their achievements generate employment, wealth and opportunity not just for those directly connected, but for the wider community. “So I’m proud to see the Chamber yet again take the opportunity to bring us together and celebrate our top talent – for their success but also for what they bring to the East Midlands as a whole.” For more information on the East Midlands Chamber Business Awards, visit www.emcdnl.co.uk/connecting-you/business-awards
A full room at the Derbyshire Business Awards