A Monmouthshire businessman has been recognised with a prestigious leadership award at this year’s Leading Wales Awards.

Richard Selby, director and co-founder of Pro Steel Engineering in Caldicot, won the Leadership in the Private Sector Award at the ceremony in Cardiff, beating off stiff competition from other prominent business figures from across Wales. Mr Selby was recognised as an inspirational and innovative leader.

The award, which was sponsored by CIPD Wales, the professional body for HR and people development, recognised courageous, inspiring, and transforming leadership.

Other finalists in the category included Ceri Rundle, from CSJ Dog Food, and Jenny Scourfield, from Bridgend-based telecoms firm, DataKom Limited.

Pro Steel Engineering was established in 2012 and employs 75 people at its offices in Portskewett, near Caldicot, and provides expertise in steel engineering to projects such as Twickenham and Principality Stadium.

Richard Selby said: “I feel incredibly honoured to receive this award. The judge’s comments were overwhelming, especially because they said I was the standout winner.”

“In my entry I tried to show leadership not only within the company, but in my overall approach. How I can help my staff reach their potential, is always at the forefront of my mind as that is what will give Pro Steel Engineering the leading edge against competitors.”

Lesley Richards, head of CIPD Wales, which sponsored Richard’s winning category, added: “As HR specialists, we recognise the importance of talented leaders to excite and engage the rest of the work force. Managing your staff well requires setting a great example, and Richard Selby has done absolutely that. Congratulations!”

Barbara Chidgey, executive chairman of the Leading Wales Awards consortium, said: “When the Leading Wales Awards launched in 2005, we were ahead of the 'awards' curve, and have proudly shone a strong light on leadership in Wales. It is only fitting that we concluded with a great celebratory evening. This year’s winners and finalists highlight yet more fantastic and diverse examples of how outstanding leadership is making a real difference across Wales.”