THE search has begun to find the directors in the North East who have done more than most to change the economic landscape of the region for the better.

The Institute of Directors North East has teamed up with The Journal and business angel investment company Middleton Enterprises to launch the North East Investor Director listing.

Each year it provides an overview of dynamic and determined business leaders, who are delivering a substantial contribution to the region’s wellbeing.

The IoD wants to turn a spotlight on those who are investing money in their organisation or the area’s infrastructure, who are expanding their company, coming up with innovative ways of doing business, instigating research and development, creating new products and services or generating employment in the North East.

Alastair Thomson, IoD North East chairman, said the role of directors who were willing to invest in their businesses was more important than ever.

“There are many entrepreneurs, who despite the current economic climate, are making great strides in expanding and growing their companies and helping drive the region’s economy forward,” he said.

“The IoD is looking for business owners who are exemplars in their field and whose commercial acumen and commitment are making a difference.

“The aim of the IoD North East’s Investor Director initiative is to officially recognise the entrepreneurial endeavours of go-head individuals and to highlight them as role models from which aspiring business executives can take a lead.”

Jeremy Middleton, of Middleton Enterprises, said: “It is important that we celebrate individuals’ success contributing to the wealth of the region and its residents and that is why Middleton Enterprises is supporting the IoD North East’s Investor Director listing.”

The business executive named last year’s leading North East Investor Director was Bill Scott, chief executive officer of Wilton Group. Scott was also The Journal’s North East business executive of the year for 2012.

The leading Investor Directors in the North East for 2012 will be honoured at the IoD North East’s annual Business Leaders’ Dinner on March 20, 2013, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham.

Anyone who would like to nominate a potential candidate should contact Helen Logan at helen. logan@recognitionpr.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Friday, November 30.