FD awards celebrate listed company excellence

MANY listed companies have faced the brunt of the economic downturn and the role of the finance director has therefore never been more crucial in driving business forward.

Today’s FDs work in a rapidly changing environment and their remit is widening with ever greater qualities and levels of experience required.

The opportunity now exists for FDs and their teams to position themselves at the heart of their organisations. 

According to research, the key aspects of an FD’s role now include four vital attributes – that of strategist, catalyst, operator and steward. 

The judges of the 2011 North West Finance Director awards will be looking for these key attributes when searching for the Best Finance Director of a plc.

Michael Hartig, head of Barclays Corporate in Manchester, said: The role of an FD is continually evolving. Not only does it require a hard-headed grasp of financial reality but also a keen commercial and strategic awareness. 

“This becomes even more vital at times when the economic outlook remains uncertain. The North West region boasts an abundance of financial talent so I have no doubt the calibre of this year’s nominees will be exceptionally high.”

This year’s awards are sponsored by Barclays Corporate, Ernst & Young, Sewell Recruitment Group and law firm Squire Sanders Hammonds. TheBusinessDesk.com is a media partner for the awards.

Entries are now open for the awards and nominations can be made by clicking here.

The full list of categories in the 2011 awards are:

•best finance director of a plc;

•best finance director of a Ltd company (up to £50m turnover);

•best finance director of a Ltd company (over £50m turnover);

•best finance director of a private equity company;

•young finance director of the year (up to 40 years of age);

•outstanding achievement award.

Judging will take place between October and November with the North West black tie awards dinner being held at The Hilton Hotel, Manchester on November 29th.

For further information on the awards dinner, contact lucinda.wood@fdawards.co.uk