Chamber to Recognise a ‘Wexford Business Ambassador of the Year’ at the Wexford Business Awards 2014

Wexford Chmaber of Commerce - Buisness Awards LaunchWexford Business Awards, now in their sixth year, are county wide awards recognising the entrepreneurialism, innovation, diversity and talent of businesses across all sectors.

Martin Doyle, President of Wexford Chamber, commented “The upcoming Business Awards on 20th June in Whites of Wexford will be a marvelous opportunity to gather with local business owners and celebrate the successes of the year.”  “Don’t miss out!  It is FREE to apply and the level of positive PR and opportunity to profile your business is something that you shouldn’t ignore” added Martin.

Commenting on this year’s Awards, CEO Madeleine Quirke said “We have embraced eBusiness this year and have taken a giant step into technology.  Our all new responsive  website which is fully digital compliant and created by Graphedia.ie,  www.wexfordbusinessawards.ie, is very user friendly and online application forms can be completed and posted online in as little as 30 minutes if that is all the time you have.  However, the information requested is intended to give the Judges an overview of your business and your vision, so pitch it!!    All the information you require is on the website, including a full list of categories together with the objective and criteria that applies to each of the 16 categories.”

The Awards are for everybody, big or small, and this year we are hoping to attract the many sole traders and artisans/craftspeople that are making such an important contribution to the local economy particularly in the food and retail sectors.   We are looking to recognise effort and performance, particularly over the past 12 months, and any business will be considered as being eligible provided that it is compliant.  A business does not have to be profitable but must demonstrate that it is viable.  Madeleine added “Many businesses have been through difficult times.  Itis important that we recognise success and whether a business has identified a new strategy in terms of growth and diversification, or whether it has decided to consolidate its  position or found ways to grow, this must be looked at in a very positive light.  The Judges will be very interested in the ups and downs of business and particularly in how opportunities and threats are being handled.”

In most cases, you will nominate your own business for a Category Award.  As a Manager you understand there are many roles to play in achieving exceptional results, developing strong team dynamics and inspiring others to greatness.  A self nominated application form will provide you with recognition of success, putting your business in the spotlight and an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of your staff and supporters.

You may also nominate somebody.  Do you know somebody that inspires others, is passionate about management, develops the potential in others and is achieving exceptional results?  Give them the ultimate recognition and nominate them today.  Nomination categories are Wexford Ambassador of the Year, Employee of the Year, Customer Service Excellence Award and our Food Award – your favourite restaurant for example.

The Wexford Ambassador of the Year Awardwill celebrate the outstanding achievements and ambition of one highly successful business individual from the county. The pride and passion the Ambassador has for Wexford will inspire success and will enhance this county’s reputation as a first class destination to do business in.  Wexford is a fantastic town, made up of great people.  “When people travel and talk about Wexford, we get noticed. The need to ‘sell’ all that is so good about Wexford is paramount to our future success especially in relation to new investment” said Madeleine.

Wexford Chamber Business Awards have become a distinguished tradition.  They recognise outstanding achievements by business people in the fields of commerce, community work and innovation.  The Awards Ceremony, coupled with the presentation of the coveted ‘Business of the Year Award’ is one of Wexford’s most prestigious annual affairs.  Last year’s winners, Irish Country Meats, were truly delighted and honored to receive the overall award.  Joe Hyland, Managing Director at Irish Country Meats said “This is a wonderful achievement and a testament to the strength and success of our business.  The awards offer the ideal platform for industry to recognise and celebrate the quality, entrepreneurialism and innovation of businesses throughout County Wexford and we at Irish Country Meats are very proud to be part of such a vibrant and talented business community.”

The recipient of the 2014 Business of the Year Award will be chosen from the winners of each category.  Judging will be carried out by an independent Panel of Judges.

Applications should now be made online. Completed forms must be in BY THURSDAY, 22nd MAY NO LATER THAN 5 PM.  An independent judging panel will review all applications received. Shortlisted applicants will be announced on Thursday, 29th May and advised of interview times. All shortlisted applicants MUST BE AVAILABLE for judging interviews on THURSDAY, 5th JUNE

The Wexford Business Awards Gala Ceremony will take place on Friday, 20th June in Whites of Wexford.  Mary Kennedy, RTÉ broadcaster and Nationwide presenter, will be  guest  MC.  Tickets are already selling for what will be a sellout occasion.  Book early.  Contact Wexford Chamber on 053 91 22226 or traceymorgan@wexfordchamber.ie  for further information.  Or visit our webpage www.wexfordbusinessawards.ie

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