University of Derby academic scoops regional business award

Fiona Shelton, Head of the University’s Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching, has been recognised in the Forward Ladies National Awards and Summit for 2018, winning the regional Public Sector / Academia / Not for Profit Category.

The HSBC UK sponsored National Awards took place on Friday (26 October) at a celebration lunch, held at The Hyatt Regency, Birmingham. They were introduced nine years ago to acknowledge and promote the fact that women are an integral and invaluable part of every business. This year, Forward Ladies recognised and honoured the most respected businesswomen, across a wide range of business categories.

The University of Derby’s Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching aims to engage staff and students in academic debate, discussion and activity generated by creative pedagogic practice and innovation to enhance learning and teaching. Fiona works with staff and students across the University to ensure excellence in all aspects of learning, teaching, assessment and digital practice.

Fiona said: “I was delighted to just be nominated for this award, so to have been acknowledged by the judges as someone who leads with determination, resilience and integrity, while also supporting other women in their leadership journey, is fantastic.”

Forward Ladies Managing Director Griselda Togobo, said: “It is 100 years since women first got the right to vote in the UK, but gender equality remains elusive. Whilst we have clearly made progress over the years, our mission to achieve equality and bring diversity to leadership roles is not yet complete.

“That said, this has been another fantastic year for women and that should be celebrated, and through our National Awards we are once again delighted to be working in partnership with HSBC UK to showcase the very best women in business here in the UK.  

“The calibre of entries has been increasing year on year, and our regional shortlists are the everyday heroines, trailblazers and role models who have succeeded despite enormous challenges. They deserve recognition.”

Jennifer Crawley, Head of Performance for Small Business Banking at HSBC UK and chief judge for Forward Ladies, said: “We’re proud to be working with Forward Ladies as part of our ongoing commitment to support women in business across the UK.

“Each year we are inspired by the number of high-calibre entries, and this year has highlighted the exceptionally talented businesswomen we have in the UK. These entrants are the future entrepreneurs of our country and play a critical role in our economy.”

Fiona will now take part in a live-judging round in Manchester in November alongside finalists from regional events in the North West, Wales and Ireland, Yorkshire and the North East, and London and the South. The overall winner will be picked and announced at the Grand Final, being held in Leeds on December 7.