INSPIRATEES
She juggles a legal role with being the driving force behind a mental health charity set up in her husband ’ s memory . And now Headlight Project founder Catherine Devereux has another role to contend with , having been named the Tees region ’ s most inspirational business leader in a prestigious annual poll .
Catherine was revealed as overall winner of the inaugural InspiraTees at a special event in front of 160 people at Hardwick Hall Hotel ’ s new Lakeside Marquee .
InspiraTees was the result of the Tees Business poll to find the Tees region ’ s most inspiring business leaders , with 200 local businesspeople casting their votes .
Each year since 2016 , when Boro chairman Steve Gibson OBE topped the first poll , the results have been announced online and in Tees Business magazine .
Other previous winners have included Bill Scott OBE , the late Professor Jane Turner OBE DL , PD Ports ’ Frans Caljé OBE and , before political figures became ineligible for the poll , Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen .
This year , to reveal the winners , it was decided to hold a lunchtime event , in association with Tees Medical Services and under the new InspiraTees banner – and it was an emotional moment when Cath stepped up to receive the overall prize .
Standing ovation - Business leaders congratulate Catherine Devereux .
Joy - applause for Caroline Theobald .
Cheers - Guests enjoy a drink .
Shock - Bianca Robinson was emotional to finish fifth .
Delight - Alison McGee receives the plaudits .
Almost 200 business leaders took part in this year ’ s survey , which saw nearly 100 people receive at least one vote .
Bob Cuffe , who hosted the InspiraTees event along with Tees Business directors Martin Walker and Dave Allan , told the audience how the leaders recognised by InspiraTees “ inspire others by showcasing the power of determination , hard work and talent , igniting a spark of possibility in others .”
He added : “ These leaders prioritise integrity and ethical decision-making , setting high standards for themselves and their organisations .
“ And through their inclusive leadership styles , they empower their teams and foster an environment of growth and innovation .”
A special guest at the event was undisputed world super-middleweight boxing champion , Hartlepool ’ s Savannah Marshall , who discussed her “ Off The Canvas – The Better You ” campaign to inspire and improve the physical and mental health of children aged three to 11 .
The voice of business in the Tees region | 33