The finalists have been announced for the Director of the Year award, sponsored by Norse Group, at the Eastern Daily Press Business Awards 2024.
Here, we learn a little more about the finalists and why the judges shortlisted them.
Andy Kindleysides – Indigo Swan
Andy Kindleysides is operations director at Indigo Swan, an energy consultancy based in the centre of Norwich.
The company helps businesses make quick, easy and well-informed decisions about their energy, putting them on the path to net zero.
Andy has a clear and concise way of explaining things, challenging the norm and always asking why; skills that are valued highly by the ownership team. He was also instrumental in creating the company’s sustainability goals.
The judges said Andy has “demonstrated remarkable resilience and personal development, which has strengthened both himself and the business”.
Dan Hurren – Norfolk Wealth Management
Founded by Dan Hurren in 2012, Norfolk Wealth Management is a Norwich-based financial planning business looking after more than 1,400 clients and in excess of £260 million in funds under management.
The company’s primary focus is working with families to plan for future generations.
Over the past 12 years, Dan has expertly guided the firm through challenging market conditions and regulatory changes, proactively seeking additional qualifications to better assist his clients in specialised areas of advice.
The judges said Dan “showcases impressive leadership, consistently driving strong performance and fostering growth through well-planned succession strategies and market development initiatives”.
Iain Molloy – A1 ADAS Solutions
Based in Norwich, A1 ADAS Solutions is the only company in the UK to provide specialist ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) and vehicle diagnostic products and services to the automotive aftermarket.
With 32 years’ industry experience, managing director Iain Molloy foresaw that complex vehicles entering the market were going to become a problem for independent workshops.
Iain’s ‘whole solution’ approach is both innovative and unique, and will facilitate growth for thousands of independent workshops.
The judges praised Iain’s “exceptional leadership in growing a highly successful business, driven by innovation and a clear vision for the future”.
They added: “His ability to surround himself with key people has contributed significantly to the company’s strong performance in the competitive automotive aftermarket sector.”
Simon Franklin – Shred Station
Simon Franklin, founder and managing director of Shred Station, has propelled the Norwich-based business from being a small local shredding supplier to the world’s largest independently-owned shredding supplier.
The company boasts a fleet of over 100 vehicles, depots across the UK and a team of more than 170 staff members.
Simon has spearheaded the implementation of all investments and innovations, such as updating Shred Station’s internal systems, expanding its fleet and identifying opportunities to reduce emissions.
The judges said Shred Station has “demonstrated remarkable success” under Simon’s leadership.
They added: “The company’s impressive carbon-neutral credentials reflect Simon’s dedication to minimising environmental impact, setting an industry-leading example.”
The winner of the Director of the Year award will be revealed at the EDP Business Awards ceremony on Thursday, November 28 at Norfolk Showground. For more information or to buy tickets, visit edpbusinessawards.co.uk
To see the finalists in all categories, please click here.
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