leader of
the year
The Leader of the Year Award is chosen by the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce Board. There are no public nominations or applications for this award.
Each year, the Board selects a leader to honour for their contribution to business, leadership, community, sector development or the wider Hawke’s Bay economy. This award recognises leadership that has had a meaningful and lasting impact.
How the recipient is selected
The Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce Board considers individuals who have shown strong leadership, integrity, influence and contribution across business and the wider region.
The recipient is selected directly by the Board and announced as part of the Hawke’s Bay Business Awards programme.
What this award recognises
Leadership and influence
This award recognises a leader who has made a clear contribution through their decisions, actions, advocacy or example.
Contribution to Hawke’s Bay business
The recipient may have supported business growth, regional development, sector progress, employment, innovation or stronger connections across the business community.
Integrity and values
The award honours leadership that is respected, principled and grounded in service to others.
Long-term impact
The Board may consider the leader’s broader legacy and the lasting value of their contribution to Hawke’s Bay.