Newcastle businessman Michael Slater was presented with the Hunter Business Chamber’s Business Leader of the Year Award on Friday night by sponsor CPA Australia.
The award was announced at the biggest ceremony the Chamber has ever hosted. Sponsored by the University of Newcastle and held at NEX, Wests City, the event was attended by more than 530 business people from across the region.
Acting Chamber CEO Anita Hugo said that Michael was a shining example of the calibre of leaders the Hunter business community is home to.
“The Hunter is home to many individuals and organisations that represent the wider diversity and success of our region,” Anita said.
“They continue to demonstrate the high standard of ability and innovation that the Hunter has become well known for.”
In presenting the President’s Award to Kirsten Molloy, President Ross Taggart commented on her long term commitment to the Hunter and beyond.
“This award is recognition of the significant role Kirsten has played in our region, the wider economy and local business over a number of years,” Ross said.
Get Smart Promotional Products was named by Newcastle Herald as winner of the award for Excellence in Small Business (-20 employees) and RTC Group was presented with the Excellence in Business (20+ employees) award by NSW Minerals Council.
Michel’s Patisserie Toronto was named by Greater Bank as the winner of the Customer Service (-20 employees) award and Trish Sellars Cleaning & Support Services won the Pacific National sponsored award for Customer Service (20+ employees).
The Local Chamber of Commerce Award sponsored by Pitcher Partners was presented to Scone Chamber of Commerce while nib health funds won the Port Authority of New South Wales Contribution to the Region accolade.
Stockton Bowling Club won the Hunter Water sponsored Hunter Water Savers Award and Cristen Cable of Kis Marketing was named Young Business Executive by Hunter TAFE.
Anita said the judges had commented on the outstanding achievement of finalists in all categories.
“The winners clearly demonstrate yet again why this region remains a powerhouse economy,” Anita concluded.
