Call for nominations for 'Boss of the Year' 2006

Says Eunice Maluleke, head of Transnet Foundation, patron of the award, "We look for role models of workplace leadership - men and women at the helm who need to stay focused on the bottom-line, but equally need to see people as a capital investment. The 2006 Boss of the Year would typically have a strong ability to mobilise and inspire his/her people, provide clear goals and direction, and live comfortably with the paradoxes of being firm yet fair, consistent, yet flexible, innovative yet careful".

"S/he would also demonstrate self-confidence, integrity, have a positive mental attitude, promote workplace safety and security, and invest in the education and training of employees."

According to award chairman, Ornella Trinco, the competition is open to all inspiring workplace leaders in small or large companies and organisations, from CEO and MD, to managers, department heads and supervisors.

"The nominator has to have worked with his/her boss for a minimum of 12 months and would need to submit answers to a number of questions. The entry form is available in Career Success which can be obtained at CNA stores," says Trinco.

The closing date for the nominations is 25 July 2006. A total of 25 semi-finalists will be selected. After completing a second questionnaire and a telephone interview, six finalists will be judged by a panel of leadership experts on Saturday, 7 October 2006. The winner and Boss of the Year will be announced at a banquet lunch at The Castle in Kyalami, Gauteng, on Monday, 16 October 2006.

Organised by Career Success by Dictum Publishers, sponsors include Stabilo as founding sponsor, Aramis and Designer Fragrances, Intercontinental Sandton Sun and Towers, Kunshuis Clanwilliam, National Alamo Car Rental, Sheaffer and Party Design. The award is endorsed by the AHI, Sacob and UNISA.

Now in its 17th year, previous title-bearers of the Award includes Dr Con Fauconnier (CEO, Kumba Resources); Mr Humphrey Khoza (CEO, Uthingo Management); Dr Geoff Garrett (President and CEO, CSIR); Mr Brand Pretorius (MD Toyota SA Marketing); Mr Trevor Munday (MD, Dulux); and Ms Seadimo Chaba (deputy director-general, Gauteng Department of Public Works and Transport).