The wide range of innovation and expertise in the north-east is once more in the spotlight as the list of finalists for the Northern Star Business Awards is revealed.
Winners are to be announced at the awards dinner on Thursday, September 26, at Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.
Among the finalists are transport firm ARR Craib, nominated for its environmental achievements in the green award, and Rhea Hussey, head of public relations at Fifth Ring, who is nominated in the rising star category.
Eddie Anderson, managing director of ARR Craib, said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted in the green award category.
“The transport sector is not an industry that one would normally associate with having green credentials, but ARR Craib has taken an innovative approach to its operations in an effort to reduce its
environmental impact.
“We hope that being shortlisted will show there are transport companies who recognise the need to take their responsibility to the environment and the communities they operate in seriously.”
Miss Hussey said: “The Northern Star Business Awards bring together the best talent from across Aberdeen city and shire and so I feel very proud to be shortlisted as a Rising Star.
“With the support and trust from the team at Fifth Ring, I have been able to realise my career aspirations and play a significant role in the company’s success.
“To be recognised for this by key representatives from across the north-east’s business community is not only a personal achievement, but underpins Fifth Ring’s commitment to its people.”
Simpson Buglass, partner at chartered surveyor Graham + Sibbald and a member of the judging panel, said: “Once again, the contenders were of a very high standard and the judging panels had their work cut out selecting ‘the best from the best’.”
Finalists
Achievement in international business: Activpayroll, KCA Deutag Drilling, Tendeka.
Best campaign of the year: Aset International Oil and Gas Training Academy, Bread PR, Tricker PR.
Commitment to innovative use of research and development: Blaze Manufacturing Solutions, Innospection, Spex Group.
Commitment to people development: Ernst & Young, Indigo Technologies, Swire Oilfield Services.
Outstanding contribution to the energy sector: Aker Solutions, Alba Power, Amec Brownfield.
Excellence in customer service: Aberdeen International Airport, DF Communications, Indigo Technologies.
The green award: ARR Craib, Elan Hair Design, One Stop Waste Solutions.
Outstanding Contribution to Society: Aberdeen Asset Management, Citrus:mix, Cornerstone.
Overall business of the year: Axis Well Technology, Bibby Offshore, Entier.
Business diversity award: Aberlour Childcare Trust, the Spotty Bag Shop.
Rising Star: Brian Chalmers from Wood Group PSN, Rhea Hussey from Fifth Ring, Jamie Hutcheon from Cocoa Ooze.
Student Placement Award: KCA Deutag Drilling, Marathon Oil, Simmons and Co.
Two other awards will be presented on the night. The lifetime achievement winner will be announced, while one business will be crowned company of the decade to celebrate 10 successful years of the awards.