Five-time Olympian, World, European and Commonwealth Champion and holder of eight world records Mark Foster will be hosting the first ever Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce business awards. Set to take place on the 27th June at the Hilton Hotel, Reading, the awards will recognise the talents, innovation and entrepreneurship of companies from across the region.
Major organisations including headline sponsor Heathrow Airport are supporting the inaugural awards, which will showcase the best of the Thames Valley, reinforcing why the region is one of the most successful in the country.
Mark, whose career has spanned 23 years’ is one of Britain’s most successful swimmers and was chosen as the flag bearer for the 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony, which he cites as one of his proudest moments. Since retiring he has cemented himself as a regular commentator and an inspiring keynote speaker in both in the corporate world and to aspiring youngsters through his swimming academy.
Gavin Spencer, Head of Member Services at the Chamber commented: “Having Mark host the night is fantastic news and we are thrilled he will be speaking at what looks set to be a truly entertaining and insightful night. The shortlist has been announced and excitement is growing for what are the first ever regional wide Thames Valley awards.”
Full awards list categories and sponsors:
- Thames Valley Business of the Year (Headline sponsor Heathrow)
- Education and Business Partnership (sponsored by Amdaris)
- Commitment to People Development (sponsored by B P Collins)
- High Growth Business of the Year (sponsored by Eacotts International)
- Excellence in Customer Service (sponsored by GEMS)
- Award Best use of Social Media (sponsored by Generate UK)
- Small Business of the Year Thames Valley (Sponsored by Grundon)
- Thames Valley Newcomer of the Year (sponsored by IBB Solicitors)
- Best use of Technology (sponsored by Macintyre Hudson)
- Export Business of the Year (sponsored by SEGRO)
- Health and Wellbeing (sponsored by VSP)