Dawn Carney, Managing Director at Fresh Pastures & School Milk UK, has been shortlisted for the ‘Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2020’, after steering Normanton-based chilled distribution business through transformational change in response to Covid-19.
Beating stiff competition from across the North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, Dawn has been announced as a finalist in the ‘Pivot Entrepreneur of the Year’ category; a newly launched award which recognises purpose-driven leaders who have rapidly adapted their business to ensure its success during and after the current crisis.
The ‘Great British Entrepreneur Awards’ is an annual event designed to celebrate the hard work and inspiring stories of entrepreneurs and businesses across the United Kingdom.
Dawn comments: “I am geniuely passionate about what I do, so I am extremely proud to have been recognised for my efforts. Fresh Pastures is the perfect example of how an organisation can evolve for the better and successfully implement change, even against the background of a global pandemic. Ultimately, it comes down to determination, commitment and a willingness to tackle challenges head on.”
“However, it goes without saying that this achievement would not have been possible without the ongoing support from my team, who have been a pillar of strength in our fight against the pandemic.”
“I am very lucky to work with a group of people who share my passion and values. Together, we have not only ensured the long-term success of our business, but have also given back to our community and delivered against our public purpose.”
Prior to the national lockdown, Fresh Pastures and School Milk UK were making more than 3,500 daily deliveries to local authorities, schools and businesses. When these venues closed, 97% of customers were lost overnight.
Within 48 hours, under Dawn’s leadership, the dairy supplier redistributed its services to save jobs, protect the business from collapsing and in turn, help feed those most vulnerable during the Coronavirus crisis.
Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, Francesca James, said: “Given what we’ve seen over the past few months, the 2020 edition of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards is arguably the most important. Now, more than ever, it’s vital that we celebrate the achievements of the country’s entrepreneurs and their determination in the face of such adversity.”
“So many entrepreneurs will have been fighting to keep their business afloat over the past few months, and indeed will be over the coming months. That’s exactly why we launched the Pivot category; to recognise those that have managed to adapt and thrive throughout this period.”
“I want to send my congratulations to each and every single entrepreneur who has made it to the shortlist this year, and I wish them the very best of luck for the regional finals.”
Anne Boden, founder and CEO of Starling Bank, said: “These entrepreneurs have gone above and beyond in order to allow their businesses to flourish in extremely difficult times and it is a true honour to congratulate each and every one of them.”
The ‘Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2020’ regional finals are on the 23 September and will be held virtually this year.
