A Todmorden-based business consultant has scooped a prestigious international award in recognition of his achievements.
Adrian Ashton was named Best in Sector - Social Enterprise Support Services, in the 2014 Sector Success Awards.
The awards recognise outstanding work and reward effort at every level of international business, ranging from large corporations to sole operators and businesses from across the globe were represented.
“I was really excited to find out out that I’d won this award,” Adrian said.
“Clients always thank me for the support I offer, but this is real validation that I’m doing the right things.”
Adrian’s story began when he worked with one of the top 100 PR consultancies in the UK. He then took on a number of management roles in social enterprises, community organisations, as well as enterprise support bodies.
His experience led him to turn around an ailing social enterprise support agency into a nationally recognised body.
Adrian is now a leading authority in his field, providing advice, consultancy, training and research to a number of social enterprises, charities, sector bodies and other organisations.
His work has had an impact throughout the upper Calder Valley - and beyond - over the years. He added: “I’m very much aware that international businesses can work differently, with different styles, so to be able to transcend cultural barriers is really encouraging. I think all businesses benefit from having someone they can talk to and who can bring that experience - it gives them more confidence. It’s about having access to a range of advice.”
One of his innovative approaches includes “beer mentoring” - where business owners can meet over a drink at their local to discuss how they can support each other and encourage growth.
The top award also recognised Adrian’s plight to put his own values into action. As a keen supporter of transparency and impact in enterprise, Adrian undertakes and publishes a social impact report on himself each year which considers economic, social and environmental impact and the extent to which he has been able to generate activity in relation to his values.
For more information visit www.adrianashton.co.uk