A BRAND new category has been added to this year’s Dorset Business Awards.

Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and Pure Networking have joining forces to sponsor the new Business Leader of the Year category.

This award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional vision and inspirational leadership, achieving measured and sustainable growth and driving high performance within their organisation.

A true business leader is an industry champion, making a significant contribution to the wider business community and the local economy.

Stuart Dixon, head of marketing and communications at DCCI, said: “Dorset is full of inspirational business leaders making impact across the county.

“We need our leaders, they play a critical role in driving growth and prosperity in the local economy, and we feel it is essential that we champion such individuals.

“They are a great source of inspiration, and demonstrate essential qualities for our aspiring future leaders, they lead by example and without title.”

And Dion McCarthy, founder of Pure Networking, said: “There are business leaders in Dorset who make a substantive, yet unrecognised, contribution to the local economy. This new and exciting award recognises unique individuals, the visionaries and those who lead with integrity while creating opportunities for others. I am proud that Pure Networking has joined forces with DCCI to search for and select the Business Leader of the Year.”

Entrants should include details of the following:

Examples of significant business achievements such as other industry awards and public recognition

Be established in the same business for three years

Demonstrate professional business acumen and leadership

Have active involvement in recognised professional and/or trade associations

Contribute to corporate and social responsibility as well as the regions business community

Demonstrate extraordinary levels of employee engagement across their organisation through an exceptional workplace and company culture

A sound financial history within business

A professional and respected public profile

This award is entered by nomination only.

In association with the Daily Echo, the Awards are backed by the south’s leading radio station Wave 105 and are free to enter. Entries can be submitted via dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk prior until Sunday September 3. Entry is open to all companies with a BH or DT postcode.