Synectics is celebrating a double IoD award win after Managing Director, Carol Shanahan, was crowned 'Director of the Year for Leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility' and HR Director, Kate Beardmore, brought home the award for 'Best Director in a Family Business'.
Following a tough application and interview process, the pair joined other regional finalists and the good news was announced at a ceremony at Edgbaston Cricket Ground on Thursday (22 June).
Carol said giving back to the community was core to her beliefs: “When my husband and I started Synectics more than a quarter of a century ago, my intention was to always put people before profit, and that remains true today, whether that be our staff, customers or the community that we’re hugely proud to be a part of.
“This award is special to me because not only does it acknowledge all that Synectics does for others, but it also underlines and reinforces my commitment to passing on the skills, leadership and business acumen that I have learned, to help organisations in the community in which we operate to grow and be successful for the future.”
Reflecting on her award, Kate said that there were key differences to working in a family business.
“I’m so pleased to have been presented with this award and I’m also really proud to be a part of the second generation of this brilliant family company.
“There are unique challenges and opportunities in family businesses that you don’t get in others and the varied roles I’ve had in my time with Synectics have had to overcome and grasp those. For that work to be recognised with an Institute of Directors award is truly humbling.”
Both will now go through to represent the region in their categories at the prestigious national Director of the Year Award UK Final on 22 September in London.