Accountancy Age Awards countdown
I spent yesterday helping to judge this year's Accountancy Age Awards. With a record number of entries this year and a number of new categories, it was an exhausting process. I'm pleased with the shortlist, though, which should keep debate raging until, ooh, next year's awards.
I can't say too much at this stage - the names on that shortlist are strictly under wraps until we reveal all on the website next week. And, of course, the winner's won't be named until the big night in November. But I will make a few observations.
The strength of each of the categories this year appeared to me to be a pretty accurate reflection of the market. Areas where business is strong had real strength in depth; in those areas that are suffering, we saw some stand-out candidates but perhaps fewer of them.
I sense a change is in the air, business-wise and this too was reflected in the submissions. The judges (who count former Bank of England governor Lord George, Deloitte vice-president Margaret Ewing, Cairn Energy FD Jann Brown, Home Office FD Helen Kilpatrick and Lastminute.com FD Paulo Pieri among them their number) spent longer debating the sectors that are feeling that pain most.
All in all a good and insightful day. I'm looking forward to the reaction once the shortlist is published. I'll keep you informed.
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