|
BU backs Entrepreneur at Business Awards |
James Hortop of Poole-based Merlin Equipment Ltd is the winner of the 2009 Dorset Business Award for Entrepreneur of the Year.
The Award, sponsored by Bournemouth University, recognises James’ passion and conviction which define him as a true entrepreneur.
Merlin Equipment manufactures components and systems that create, store, convert and distribute electrical power. Following the sudden death of company founder and James’ father, John Hortop in 2007, his son took on the job of managing the company and securing the jobs of the 16 employees. He has since moved the business forward through innovation, restructuring and refocusing.
“In spite of the life-changing circumstances that put James in the driving seat at Merlin Equipment, he has shown grit, determination, opportunism, bravery and great ability in realising a bright and prosperous future for his company,” said the panel of judges. “James shows the real characteristics that define an entrepreneur and this is demonstrated through how he lives and breathes his business, which is with pride, enthusiasm and pure determination to succeed and be the best.”
Runners-up for Entrepreneur of the Year included the Management Team at Hansatech in Poole which provides manufacturing solutions for electronic products and Rebecca Fordham of R.E.A.L. People Solutions, also of Poole, who provides human resources advice and support to other businesses.
The determination of Dorset’s businesses to make it through the economic downturn was rewarded at this year’s Awards, held at the Lighthouse Arts Centre in Poole. Hosted by BBC presenter Roger Johnson, the 15th annual Awards saw 10 firms and three local schools triumph in a record year for the event which attracted more entries than ever before.
Organised by Dorset Business (the Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and backed by the south’s leading radio station Wave 105, the evening welcomed more than 540 of the region's business people, dignitaries, MPs and press to pay tribute to the successful, entrepreneurial and fast-rising companies from across the region.
Peter Scott, chief executive of Dorset Business (the Chamber of Commerce and Industry) said: “We extend our congratulations to all of this year’s winners. In a year which has been very hard for businesses nationwide, it is evident that Dorset’s companies and individuals have worked extremely hard to combat the worst of the recession. We hope that all our Finalists will see their nomination as an acknowledgement of their efforts and it will encourage them to continue to succeed in the future.”
Return to Current News page
Return to Previous News page