Shortlist for 2018 finance awards is announced

THE shortlist for the 2018 Finance Awards Wales has been revealed.

Hosted by Recruit 121 Group, Finance Awards Wales celebrates the outstanding achievements of the finance profession and recognise the sector’s significant contribution to the Welsh economy.

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner, to be held at Cardiff’s City Hall on April 20.

Matt Hyde, managing director of the inaugural awards, said: “The response from finance professionals across the whole of Wales has been excellent, with impressive nominations received across the categories”.

Ken Poole, Cardiff Council’s head of economic development and chairman of the judging panel, said: “The quality of the nominations was of a very high standard. We had some very hard decisions to make to confirm the shortlist and we know the final judging will be even more difficult.”

Economy and Infrastructure Secretary Ken Skates has welcomed the awards, commenting: “A skilled workforce is vital in driving a strong, growth economy and in Wales our finance professionals play pivotal roles across all industries and sectors.

“Finance Awards Wales will recognise the very best talent and will show that Wales has the skills to compete at the highest levels of world business.” The catergory finalists are: Chief Financial Officer/ Finance Director: Daniel Clegg, Amber Energy; Andrew Gibbs, Bridgend College; Mark Burn, Henry Howard Finance; Hannah Heath, JoJo Maman Bebe; Philip Evans, LBS Builders Merchants.

Young Finance Director: Daniel Clegg, Amber Energy; Sara Foster, Bridgend College; David Landen, IHP Accountants; Emily Pulham, Vista Retail Support.

Financial Controller: Vicky Williams, Flexicare Medical; Claire Burdett, Greenaway Scott; Mark Evans, Henry Howard Finance; Sarah Louise Edwards, Thomas Carroll Group; Tony Sleep, Vista Retail Support.

Finance Team (financial services): Clickery Financial; Henry Howard Finance; Hodge Bank; Natwest.

Medium/Large Finance Team: Admiral Group; Dyfed Steel; JoJo Maman Bebe; Pengiun Wealth; Target Group.

Small Finance Team: AerFin; Awel Coop; Eco2; Guardian Global Technologies; South Wales Trunk Road Agent.

Accounts Assistant: James Bygate, Inspiresport; Peter Fraser, Magnet and Steel; Katharine Redwood, New Directions; Olivia Evans, Tiger Cardiff.

Rising Star: Gwenno George, Acuity Law; Simon Waters, Principality; Sally Avery, Retail Merchandising Services; Christian Evans, Sanktuary Investment.

Credit Team: Newsquest Media Group; Sonovate.