Suffolk businesses recognised in national business awards

Two of Suffolk’s local businesses and Suffolk Chamber members, Vertas Group Ltd and Cory Brothers Shipping Agency Ltd, have been given regional awards in this year’s British Chamber Business Awards.

Achieving the regional win for the east of England in the Workforce Developer category were Vertas, who bring together facilities management, design and property consultancy and recruitment solutions. The award recognised Vertas’ approach to the learning and development of their team and how it has enhanced their business performance. 

Their entry highlighted the company’s approach to championing a ‘People Making a Difference’ work strategy that values and supports staff and fosters an environment that ensures everyone achieves and sustains excellence in their career journey, and their ‘Leadership Pathway’ programme that provides development opportunities for rising stars within their team.                                                        

When being presented with his award Ian Surtees, group chief executive officer at Vertas said:

“We are honoured to have won this regional award, as it recognises the long-term investment we make in our colleagues. Our people are what make our business and we are proud to have highly-skilled individuals and teams who really make the difference to each other, our clients and our community.”

Suffolk’s second British Chamber regional award win went to Peter Wilson, Managing Director of Cory Brothers Shipping Agency Ltd who received the east of England’s Game Changer award.

Peter’s nomination was in recognition of his dynamic approach to leadership and business strategy, which has led to consistent growth and development across all of the company’s departments including logistics, hub, agency and liner divisions.

On receiving his award, Peter commented:

“I am very pleased to have received this award on behalf of all the team at Cory Brothers. The passion and commitment within our team to achieve our company’s goals is phenomenal, and I am very proud of everything we have accomplished this year.”

The awards were presented by John Dugmore, Chief Executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, who said:

“Suffolk Chamber would like to congratulate Ian, Peter and all their staff for being regional winners of this year’s British Chamber awards. This is well-deserved recognition for two great Suffolk businesses.

“Both companies have demonstrated their utter commitment to their customers during a challenging period for business, and have also proven to be dedicated employees of the highest quality.”

Image 1: John Dugmore presenting Ian Surtees with his Workforce Developer award

Image 2: John Dugmore presenting Peter Wilson with his Game Changer award