Carolyn McCall
Carolyn McCall, Chief Executive of the Guardian Media Group, was awarded a top Business prize last night.
She was awarded this year's prestigious Veuve Clicquot Business Woman award at champagne reception at London’s Berkeley Hotel last night.
The top award is regarded as the 'Oscar' for female entrepreneurs and those working in the corporate world in the UK. Highly prized and sought after, it is the first and original award created specifically to recognise the contribution women have made to the business life of this country.
Carolyn McCall oversees a business which spans publishing, broadcasting and the internet. The Guardian Media Group comprises the Guardian and Observer, the Guardian.co.uk website, GMG Radio, regional newspapers including the Manchester Evening News, Trader Media Group (publisher of Auto Trader) and a property services division.
The other finalists were: Cilla Snowball, Chairman and Chief Executive, AMV Group; Sophi Tranchell, Managing Director, Divine Chocolate Ltd; and Alice Avis, Chief Executive, Sanctuary Spa Holdings.
The Veuve Clicquot Business Woman Award is in its 35th year and now runs in 17 other countries. It celebrates the memory of Madame Veuve Clicquot, a formidable and successful 19th century businesswoman who created the Champagne House that still bears her name. Her audacity, bravery and creativity are celebrated each year, reflected in the light of the achievements of the finalists who, in their turn, present excellent role models for young women aspiring to cement their place in the business world.
Carolyn McCall on receiving her award said: "The list of previous winners is a roll call of highly talented and inspirational women, so I'm absolutely delighted to win this award. The achievements of the former winners and my fellow nominees offer encouragement to women in business everywhere."
Last year’s winner was Rosaleen Blair, the Chief Executive of recruitment specialist, Alexander Mann Solutions.
High profile winners from the last 10 years include Dame Majorie Scardino, OBE, CEO of Pearson; Barbara Cassani, Founder and CEO of low-cost airline, Go; Dianne Thompson, CBE, CEO of Camelot; and Linda Bennett, Founder of LK Benne