Wood boss among Scots directors of year

Energy services firm Wood’s chief executive Robin Watson has been honoured at the Institute of Directors( I oD) 2019 awards ceremony.

Watson was named I oD Scotland director of the year for large businesses, one of 20 “outstanding” leaders collecting awards that span 11 key director and seven regional categories plus new sections for innovation and inclusivity.

Jamie Mcgowan of candle and home fragrance company Essence of Harris, was honoured in the small to mediumsized business category.

The judging panel hailed Watson’ s“leadership in circumstances that required bold and decisive action yet [he] maintained corporate strength and robustness and integrity”, and Mcgowan for his “extensive entrepreneurial spark and engagement”.

International director of the year was Brendon O’reilly, Fashion House Group, and coming up top in the startup category was Daniel Winter stein of ethical advertising platform Good-loop.

Discretionary awards were also presented to Lord Haughey of City Facilities Management Holdings and V&A Dundee director Philip Long.

The winners of the 11 national awards will progress to the UK Director of the Year Awards, which take place in London in October.

David Watt, executive director of the I oD in Scotland, said: “Key traits that emerged throughout the judging process centred on a fearlessness to innovate; collaboration with partners; and a commitment to ongoing investment in their employees to ensure their businesses grow further.”