Search begins for SME leaders

The NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry has today launched a new awards scheme for management excellence in small to medium-sized businesses.

The Management and Leadership Awards 2003, in association with the Management and Leadership Network (MLN), will be presented at a major NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) gala dinner this year.

The award also carries with it a full bursary up to the value of £3000 for the use with the Department for Employment and Learning endorsed programmes.

Mr Bill Manson, Chief Executive of MLN, said: "Our board are very pleased to be associated with this new format award. We hope to find some excellent examples of good management and leadership practice amongst our SME organisations and use these as role models for others.

"We are also delighted to be collaborating with NICCI. This is very much part of our aim to ‘network’ with organisations who share our objectives to strengthen Northern Irelands economic competitiveness."

The award will be presented to the individual who, in the assessment of the judging panel, has made the most significant contribution to the development of their business or organisation through the acquisition and application of management and leadership capabilities.

Frank Hewitt, Chief Executive of NICCI, said: “Increasingly the success of Northern Ireland companies will depend on the skills of their workforces and the talent and ability of their managers.

“The chamber is delighted to be associated with an award which recognises and encourages the development of management capabilities and we will be encouraging our members to compete for this important award.”

Any SME with an individual that deserves recognition for their efforts can download an application pack from the MLN website at www.mln.org.uk

The closing date for application is February 28. Further details can be obtained from Bill Manson on 028 9080 4201 or email info@mln.org.uk

(GMcG)