Elizabeth Willetts, leading the charge with Investing in Women, clinched the title of Services Industries Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 for the South East at The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
Acknowledged as one of the entrepreneurial world’s most sought-after honours, this year’s edition of The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards attracted over 5,000 entries, underscoring its prestige.
A Celebrated Win Amidst Fierce Competition
Just making it to the shortlist is a remarkable achievement in itself, given the level of competition, thereby amplifying the significance of the victory for Investing in Women. James Watt of BrewDog, a previous winner, compared winning to “better than winning the World Cup”; while Steven Bartlett referred to the awards as “The Grammys of Entrepreneurship”, indicating the high status of the event.
The jury members said: “A timely business that deserves to be highlighted. This accolade comes as a recognition of the outstanding work by Elizabeth and the entire team at Investing in Women, highlighting their dedication to supporting and empowering women in the business world.”
Francesca James, who initiated The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, commented: “I am thrilled to witness the extraordinary achievements of this year’s winners. Their success stories are a testament to the dynamic and innovative spirit that thrives within UK entrepreneurship. These inspiring entrepreneurs embody the creativity, determination, and passion that are at the heart of our nation’s business success. Their accomplishments not only celebrate their own journeys but also light the way for future generations of innovators and business leaders”.
Richard Davies, Allica Bank’s CEO, remarked: “It has been a real honour to sponsor this year’s GBEA awards. Hearing the inspiring stories from this year’s winners really brings to life the important contribution British entrepreneurs make to our economy. At Allica, we couldn’t be more excited to see such a talented group of individuals making their mark in the business world, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on what they do next.”
Investing in Women, initiated by Elizabeth Willetts, is a pioneering job board and recruitment agency revolutionising the UK job market since its creation at Elizabeth’s dining room table amid the Covid pandemic in 2021.
With a mission to bridge the gap between skilled women, particularly mothers in their 30s and 40s, and leading UK employers, Investing in Women has emerged as a symbol of hope and opportunity. It specialises in linking candidates with flexible, remote, and part-time roles, focusing on the importance of a balanced work-life.
Under Elizabeth’s stewardship, Investing in Women has soared, forming partnerships with many renowned organisations in various industries. It has become synonymous with empowering women to balance professional ambitions with family life and personal aspirations. The organisation’s efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace have not only received widespread recognition but also made a real difference in the lives of many UK professionals.
The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards are instrumental in recognising and supporting entrepreneurs across the UK, fostering communities that back their growth at various stages. With its competitive nature and history of honouring businesses that become well-known, the awards are a hallmark of entrepreneurial excellence.
