Now in its 34th year, the national competition celebrates the outstanding achievements of businesswomen, culminating in a gala event at the Metropole Hilton Hotel, Birmingham at the start of October.
Last year’s winner, Dr. Sharon Redrobe, is an internationally renowned zoologist and chief executive of Twycross Zoo in Warwickshire. Dr Redrobe was awarded the accolade because of her vision to modernise the zoo, make it profitable and gain extra funding. The judges commented that she is an inspirational role model to all women in business and demonstrates true leadership.
“It was exciting and humbling to have won the award,” said Dr Sharon Redrobe. “I take it as a huge compliment for the work we’ve been doing at Twycross Zoo, transforming a struggling business into a modern, professional and solvent conservation business.”
Speaking at the launch event at the House of Lords, Dr Redrobe encouraged businesswomen to step forward and nominate themselves for the award. She commented: “As women, we often don’t acknowledge our success, and there are some great examples of fantastic businesswomen across the UK.
“While we still have a world where the majority of boards and executive teams are made up of men, it’s vitally important that we act as role models for future generations of women.”
Zalena Vandrewala – associate at law firm Freeths LLP – is one of the directors of the awards and is urging women to nominate themselves or their colleagues. She added: “I’d like more women to shout about their successes and achievements. It’s a fantastic opportunity to increase the visibility of successful women in industry and encourage others to reach their full potential.
“We welcome entries from all sectors, and are hoping this year to hear from more women in the construction and engineering industries.”
The not-for-profit award is one of the longest established in Britain and the largest event of its kind to take place outside of London. In addition to highlighting the achievements of women nationwide, the award also aims to raise funds for its chosen charities.
To date, the event has raised over £500,000 for worthy causes. This year’s chosen charities are leading employment charity Tomorrow’s People, and national disability charity Revitalise.
For a nomination form, email info@womenoftheyear.org.uk, the closing date for entries is September 1, 2016.
