Northern finance directors recognised at inaugural awards

The achievements of finance directors working across the North of England were recognised at a new awards dinner that shone the spotlight on the people who are often the unsung heroes of any successful business.

The Northern Finance Director awards, which were created by Barclays, EY and Squire Patton Boggs, celebrated the work of 62 shortlisted individuals and the strength of talent across the region.

Peninsula’s Peter Swift, who won one of the 12 awards, told the audience in Manchester that “I never thought being an accountant would be so much fun”.

The candidates went through a rigorous application and interview process and were judged on all-round commercial and managerial skills, including interpersonal qualities, business acumen, innovation and influence, as well as technical accounting and financial skills.

There were three winners from universities, with the work of the finance directors at Hull, Leeds and Newcastle recognised. Richard Dale, who has been at Newcastle University for nearly 10 years, won the Outstanding Achievement award for his work in growing the North East university.

Dale, who accepted the award on behalf of his team and the higher education sector, said “to be paid to have so much fun is just great”.

Hilary Heap, partner at EY, said: “It has been fantastic to see the exceptionally high calibre of all of the finalists for this year’s award and to be able to showcase all that they, and the North, has to offer and celebrate their great achievements.”

Karen Johnson, head of large corporate and key clients in the North West at Barclays, said: “Nothing gives me greater pleasure than seeing FDs receive due recognition for playing a pivotal role in driving financial success for their company.”

Giles Chesher, partner and head of the Manchester Corporate team at Squire Patton Boggs, added that finance directors take “a lead role in developing their businesses” looking for growth opportunities.

“Talented FDs play a key part in a company’s success and we are delighted to recognise their achievements,” he said.

The Northern Finance Director Awards 2017:

Best Northern Finance Director of a Not for Profit Organisation
Steve Willis, University of Hull

Best Northern Finance Director of a Limited Company up to £25m
Chris Blaxall, Performance Horizon

Best Northern Finance Director of a Limited Company £25m – £100m
Andy Davis, Prima Cheese

Best Northern Finance Director of a Limited Company over £100m
Peter Swift, Peninsula

Best Northern Finance Director of a Listed Company
Dave Wilson, GBG Plc

Best Northern Finance Director of a Private Equity Backed Company
Joanne Cowl, Park Leisure

Northern Finance Director of the Year 2017 – One to Watch Award
Caroline Ackroyd, Sky Betting & Gaming

Young Northern Finance Director of the Year 2017
Thomas Staley, Sirius Minerals

Northern Finance Director of the Year 2017 – Strategic Impact
Chris Blaxall, Performance Horizon

Northern Finance Director of the Year 2017 – Leadership
Ian Bull, Parkdean Resorts

Northern Finance Director of the Year 2017 – Innovation
Jane Madeley, University of Leeds

Northern Finance Director of the Year 2017 – Outstanding Achievement
Richard Dale, Newcastle University