The popular Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Awards return on June 29th and will be hosted by Sally Gunnell OBE, who is the only woman ever to hold four major track titles concurrently – Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth.
Sally’s rise to the pinnacle of her sport was hard won. She blew the chance to be World Champion in 1991, stormed back to win Olympic Gold in 1992 and defied incredible odds to become World Champion in 1993, setting a new World Record in the process. She contended with injuries, athletes that she saw as more naturally gifted and, a relatively modest support infrastructure compared to her peers. Her success, by her own admission, was down to a firm grip over her own mind and a lot of very hard graft.
The Business Awards is one of the flagship events for the Chamber and builds on last years’ spectacular event on the 29th June at the Hilton Hotel, Reading. The evening will celebrate and recognise the talents, innovation and entrepreneurship of companies from across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Swindon.
Major organisations are supporting the Awards, which will showcase the best of the Thames Valley, reinforcing why the region is home to one of the most resilient and successful business communities in the country.
Paul Britton, CEO at the Chamber commented: “The Chamber Awards celebrate the achievements and hard work of local businesses large and small. During these challenging economic times the Awards provide energy, profile and confidence to all involved. We are delighted to have the opportunity to make this happen, it is a huge boost for our members and the Chamber team.
“We are delighted that Sally will be the host of the 2023 Awards, and we look forward to welcoming her on the 29th of June, its promises to be another great occasion’.
Businesses across the Thames Valley are being encouraged to submit an entry before they close on Friday 5th May.
Full awards list categories and sponsors:
- Commitment to the Community (sponsored by Buckinghamshire New University)
- Excellence in Customer Service (sponsored by Saffery Champness)
- SME Business of the Year Thames Valley (Sponsored by James Cowper Kreston)
- Export Business of the Year (sponsored by Heathrow)
- Workplace Health and Wellbeing (sponsored by Doyle Clayton)
- Excellence in Sustainability (sponsored by SEGRO)
- Equality and Diversity Award (sponsored by Virgin Incentives)
- Employer of the Year (sponsored by IBB Law)
- Most Promising New Business (sponsored by GEMS)
- Best use of Technology