Royal recognition for responsible business

Jun 19 2009 by Iain Laing, The Journal

THE boss of software giant Sage was last night named the 2009 ambassador for responsible business in the North East by Prince Charles.

The Prince of Wales highlighted the work of Paul Walker, chief executive of Sage, the Newcastle-based plc, in a filmed announcement to hundreds of business people at the Business in the Community Awards for Excellence 2009 in the NewcastleGateshead Hilton.

“As I reflect on the challenges and successes as President of Business in the Community, it strikes me that unlocking talent and potential is the underpinning theme of everything I’ve been committed to over the past 26 years,” said Prince Charles.

“We are nearly always dependent on the talents of individual business leaders to find a way to make things happen. My Ambassador Award recognises the contribution of those individuals whose unwavering dedication and commitment has made a real difference in the organisations and communities in which they work.

“It is a testament to Paul’s commitment that in just three short years, Sage has gained a reputation for making a real difference to the communities it serves around the UK, both through its volunteering programmes and its support for local voluntary and community groups, as well as its work with local schools.”

The Prince’s Ambassador Award is for individuals whose leadership and commitment to responsible business has resulted in changes and improvements inside their own company and who have also inspired other organisations to take action. Karen Wilkinson-Bell, BITC’s regional director said: “In the current climate it’s never been more important for businesses to show their leadership when it comes to responsible business issues. I am delighted that Paul has been recognised by our President, The Prince of Wales, for his personal commitment to this agenda here in the North East”.

The awards also recognised Stephen Bell, chief executive of Tyneside Cyrenians, with the Marks & Spencer Sieff Award, for his organisation’s work in helping break down the barriers and stigma associated with homelessness by developing programmes to support homeless people into employment, including an award-winning collaboration with North East-based construction company Lumsden & Carroll, part of the Esh Group.