Outstanding Australian managers to be recognised in a new award

Outstanding achievers in sport, the arts, science and the community are often identified and publicly celebrated. Outstanding managers of people, however, receive scant recognition. In light of the fact that managers have a significant impact on the lives of almost everyone in the Australian workforce, the national body that represents Australian people managers has initiated an annual award that recognises their contribution to the nation.

“Everyone knows the devastating effect of a bad manager. They are bad for business and have the potential to make a misery of the lives of the people who report to them.” says Peter Wilson, national president of the Australian Human Resources Institute.

“But a good manager is not only good for business; he or she also cares for the lives of the people who make a contribution to the business. People employed in successful businesses are more likely to be engaged and happy in their work, and be committed to the continuing success of the enterprise. And thriving enterprises are good for the national economy.”

None of this can happen without the contribution of competent and innovative managers. AHRI is delighted to be at the forefront of celebrating the contribution of outstanding managers with its 2008 People Manager of the Year Award,” says Mr Wilson.

Nominations for the award are invited from all enterprises operating in Australia whether they be small, medium or large. There will be two classes of award: one for managers in organisations with fewer than 300 employees and another for managers in organisations with more than 300 employees.

Nominations close on June 7. The 2008 winners will be announced at a gala dinner in October. See www.awards.ahri.com.au for more information.

AAP