Winner announced of Webexpenses’ award for Best Young Finance Director

The winner of a webexpenses award to find the North West’s Young Finance Director of the Year has been announced as Paul Smith.

A panel of judges at the North West Finance Awards selected Paul for his impressive work in handling the finances of Preston based tour operator Gold Medal Travel.

The company, with a gross turnover of £329 million, provides a range of business and wholesale travel services.

Phil was presented with the prestigious award in front of 700 guests at a ceremony held in the Macron Stadium, Bolton (formerly the Reebok Stadium).

He managed to beat tough competition from the three other shortlisted finalists, with the judging panel impressed by Paul’s combination of professionalism, knowledge and creativity.

The expert panel included Jon Pinder, Managing Partner (Lancashire) of Baker Tilly, and Martin Hanratty, National Account Manager of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).

Paul only took on the Finance Director role in 2013 and immediately found himself faced with the tough challenge as the company went through a divestment process.

Caroline Trotman, Head of Marketing at webexpenses said: “We are extremely proud to be supporting an award which promotes and highlights the tremendous talent we have in the UK finance sector.

“All of this year’s finalists have shown the quality, knowledge and expertise which make them such a vital component of successful companies.

“With the standards so high, it’s a testament to Paul that he’s been chosen as this year’s winner and he deserves tremendous credit for the way he has taken to his role.”

This is the fifth time the North West Finance Awards has been held and has now established itself as a landmark event in the region’s business calendar.