We are swiftly approaching our IoD Wales Director of the Year Awards final on May 16, and will announce a shortlist within the next few weeks.

We introduced the awards four years ago as a means of rewarding business leaders across Wales and I always look forward to seeing the shortlist, which represents a huge variety of business talent from across Wales.

Being an employee of the Institute of Directors, I’m excluded from the judging panel, which is as it should be, but means that, like other guests, I anticipate the winners being announced at the big awards lunch at the SWALEC Stadium.

I am always incredibly encouraged by the quality and standard of significant business directors who play their part and enter from across Gwent. These are leaders who have demonstrated exemplary resilience in the face of recession and are really focussing on driving the growth of their businesses.

The awards are held in their honour and recognise the cream of business leaders here in Wales. I am always amazed and incredibly proud of the huge variety of businesses represented from across so many successful industries that are thriving here in Wales.

In general, judges of business awards look for achievements above the norm and, in the case of our awards, for individuals who stand out for their levels of commitment and selfless qualities. Winners tend to be those who demonstrate entrepreneurship, foresight and direction: people whom others want to follow because they combine a warm personality with leadership qualities and outstanding achievements.

Last year’s Chairman’s award was awarded to Henry Engelhardt, the inspirational chief executive of Admiral Group, which has a substantial base in Newport. He perfectly demonstrates these qualities.

Whether you are nominated for an award this year or work with someone who is, the lunch is a fantastic opportunity for celebrating with and rewarding your team and I very much look forward to seeing you there.