IoD names East of England Directors of the Year

IoD Directors of the Year 2022

The IoD is a thriving membership community for directors. Members access valuable connections with other leaders, professional development and an influential lobbying voice.

The IoD Director of the Year Awards celebrate leadership talent, success and achievement across all industry sectors: public, private and voluntary. It recognises directors from Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Suffolk and Norfolk.

IoD regional chair Biplab Rakshi said: “The last two years have been tumultuous for directors, to say the least. The pandemic required bold, often difficult decisions to support employees, clients and stakeholders. Throughout this period, we have seen innovation and resilience shine through – and that is clearly demonstrated by our winners this year. We can all be proud of the strength and diversity of directorial talent across the East of England.”

Keynote speaker was mentor, boardroom advisor and author Alison Edgar MBE, also known as “The Entrepreneur’s Godmother”.

The awards presented were:

Chair’s Award

Winner – Michael Beckett, chief officer, Colchester Foodbank

The judges applauded Michael’s “humbling excellence” and cited how he effectively balanced media with client dignity, calling his submission “outstanding in almost every way” and “visionary”.

Highly commended – Garry Mansell, non-executive director, Fountain Partnership

Social Value and Sustainability Impact Award

Winner – Sarah Wilson, chief executive, ACE Travel Management

Judges noted it was “great to see this company setting an example on the path of reducing their own CO2 footprint as well as their clients”.

Highly commended – Tarnia Robertson, managing director, Ufford Park Hotel, Golf and Spa

Small Medium Business (below £50m turnover) including Family Business

Winner – Ashley Higgs, managing director, MCG Healthcare

The judges said Ashley had demonstrated “impressive financials” in his “comprehensive” submission that also referenced succession planning.

Highly commended – Brian Keane, managing director, Cameron Ventures Group

Early Business Award

Winner – James Groves, managing director, Indigo Swan

The judges said James “clearly evidenced leadership qualities and people focus” and highlighted the “strong evidence provided on culture and values across the organisation, role modelled by the director”.

Highly commended – David Carey, director, Aspiring Solicitors Foundation

IoD members receive many benefits, including access to workspace hubs and professional development training. Locally, the IoD stages regular members’ events both virtually and in person. Members also receive unbiased, confidential advice on strategic and operational challenges from business, tax and legal experts.

The IoD is the voice of its members to the UK government, ensuring directors are heard by policymakers and advocating change on the issues that matter most.

The Chair’s Award went to Michael Beckett, chief officer of Colchester Foodbank, a project founded by local churches and community groups to stop hunger in the local area. Michael has also been appointed as charity ambassador for the Institute of Director’s Essex branch. IoD ambassadors enable greater connectivity, create influence and drive professional development opportunities while giving the Institute its all-important local voice.