NOMINATIONS are open until February 28 for the Real Business FDs’ Excellence Awards.

Now in their 11 th year, they are held in association with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and supported by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

A total of 18 categories celebrate the most talented finance directors in the UK, alongside the leading service providers in the sector.

Last year, Basingstoke-based accountants Haines Watts won the Accountancy Firm of the Year – SMEs, at the awards.

Haines Watts partner Barry Potter, based in Sarum Hill, said: “This type of award really matters to us because it's voted for by business people and not by an academic panel of experts.”

The awards are divided into three parts, covering private businesses, FTSE companies, and service providers.

Michael Izza, ICAEW’s chief executive said: “Finance directors have a huge responsibility in driving businesses through the economic recovery. They go beyond numbers. They manage risks that come with the environment in which business operates - which is all the more important when all eyes are currently on geo-politics and the global economy. It is important to celebrate finance directors and their vital contribution to business and wider economy, which is why we support the FDs’ Excellence Awards. They recognise the shining stars in finance and are a beacon for the profession.”

Matthew Fell, CBI director for competitive markets, said: “The UK economic recovery is on track but businesses are facing a number of risks, including the weak Eurozone, slowing emerging markets and political instability. The role of finance directors in successfully navigating these challenges to cement growth for the long-term is critical, and the CBI is proud to support their vital contribution.”

The winners will be announced in May at an awards ceremony at the London Marriott, in Grosvenor Square.

For more information, visit fdx.realbusiness.co.uk.