BUSINESSPERSON OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Leeds Day Solicitors

The Hunts Post: Hunts Biz AwardsHunts Biz Awards (Image: KenChallenger)

One of the leading figures in the takeover of Lola Composites was named as The Hunts Post’s Businessman of the Year.

Paul Jackson, managing director of Forward Composites, decided after nearly a year of running the Lola company in administration to take over the business himself.

The judges described Mr Jackson as “a focused, dedicated, fair and passionate leader, as well as creator”.

Mr Jackson said: “We have had a great few months after running for 10 months in administration and it is a great feeling to have won this award.

“I have a great team of people who are growing our company, rebuilding confidence to our customers but we still have a long way to go.

“We are looking at developing a great business and investing in research and development.”

The judges said: “He has built a wonderfully dynamic and driven team which has lead to greater than anticipated financial results. Paul has also shown how nurturing key relationships, on all levels, leads to success.

“He also happens to be in charge of what could possibly be described as the best Airfix kit in the world. A truly deserving winner.”

FINALISTS: Stuart Gibbons of Le Mark, Maxine Lester of Maxine Lester Residential Lettings and Rebecca Rayner of Glebe Farm Foods Limited.