I am very much looking forward to our IoD Wales Director of the Year Awards on Friday and as always, to meeting business leaders from across Wales, who will be joining us.

As you will know, the awards have become an established highlight on the Welsh business calendar and celebrate business achievements across Wales while bringing all sectors of the business community together, irrespective of size, region or age.

We were delighted that nine finalists from the 2014 Awards were shortlisted for the UK National Awards, with Welsh winner SuperStars’ James Taylor named overall UK Director of the Year 2014 as well as Young Director of the Year.

Once again, this year’s finalists are of the highest calibre with plenty of representation from Gwent – including Lloyd Davies from Convey Law; Richard Selby from Pro Steel Engineering; Peter O’Toole from RMS and Liz Maher from Centurion VAT Specialists.

We’re delighted that Edwina Hart, MBE CStJ AM, Minister for Economy, Science and Transport will join us again this year.

The Awards highlight outstanding business people across Wales who truly inspire their teams by going above and beyond and this year’s shortlist is incredibly strong.

Cardiff Business School is headline sponsor for this year's awards, with other sponsors including Welsh Government; Lloyds Bank; Legal and General; Academi Wales; Leadership and Management Wales; Tidal Lagoon; ACCA; Cardiff Business School; Wessex Garages; Leadership and Management Wales; award-winning PR specialists Effective Communication and Tracy Marsh Marketing & Events.

If you’re joining us – I very much look forward to seeing you there and if not, perhaps you’ll consider being part of next year’s event, which has grown year on year and is always a fantastic celebration. Good luck to all our finalists!