TEWNTY-two of this year’s finalists of the Women in Business Awards have attended an exclusive overnight retreat at RBS Gogarburn in Edinburgh ahead of the glitzy ceremony at the Culloden on November 19.
Women in Business chief executive Roseann Kelly described it as "a fantastic couple of days".
Facilitated by WIB chair Kate Marshall, the event gave finalists the chance to network and make new business connections, benefit from bespoke business master classes, workshops and breakout sessions as well as hearing from inspiring speakers, including Scotland’s Minister for Youth and Women’s Employment Annabelle Ewing.
There was also some well-deserved downtime where the finalists were able to relax and take in the fabulous and unique work environment at RBS Gogarburn.
Sinead Murphy, director at baby products company Shnuggle and a finalist in the Best Small Business category, said; “The retreat has left such a lasting impression. Not only am I reflecting on the conversations with like-minded businesswomen, but I am coming back to my own business with a fresh perspective.
“It is a rare opportunity to take time out and share ideas with other women in business. The WIB finalist class of 2015 will always have a special bond well into the future and I feel honoured to be part of that group."
Hosted by television presenter Pamela Ballantine, the Women in Business Awards acknowledges and celebrates the determination, success and achievements of women from the north's business community.
Madam Justice McBride, one of two first female High Court judges in Northern Ireland, has been confirmed as the keynote speaker at the fifth annual awards.
Roseann Kelly added: “Securing the services of Denise McBride for what will be her first major public address since her appointment is a real coup for our organisation and I’m sure those attending the awards will be very interested in what she has to say.”
Tickets are available for the Women in Business Awards priced at £100 (click on www.womeninbusinessni.com for more information and to book).
The award categories are Young Business Woman of the Year, Best in Professional Services, Advancing Diversity in the Workplace, Best New Start-Up, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Best Marketing Campaign, Outstanding Management / Leadership, Best Customer Services, Best Small Business, Excellence in IT, Best Exporter.
Sponsors and partners of the Women in Business Awards 2015 include Fujitsu, Ulster Bank, Staffline, Q Radio, Department for Employment and Learning, Equality Commission, JC Decaux, Deloitte, Belfast City Council, John McKee Solicitors, Vistage and the Irish News.
