Final Call for Nominations for the Inspiring Individual Award Sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery in Honour of Sandy Smith

The Comms Council and Warner Bros. Discovery are making a final call for nominations for the Inspiring Individual Award. This prestigious award seeks out the industry's most inspiring leaders who are often referred to as the "unsung heroes" within their organization. These individuals inspire their peers through their generosity of spirit, patience, willingness, and passion, and are integral to the success and culture of their company.

"We are excited to recognize those who actively support others to unlock their full potential and those who contribute to driving a better industry for all," says Warner Bros. Discovery’s Senior Director of Ad Sales ANZ, Donna Gurney. "This is such a special award, and we are honoured to continue recognising Sandy’s legacy at the Beacons this year."

Sandy Smith, who worked in the media industry for more than 25 years, built enduring client relationships and was involved in groups dedicated to improving advertising standards, conducting research and addressing key industry issues. The Inspiring Individual Award recognises individuals who have consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, mentoring, or coaching skills in the workplace, regardless of their position or job title within the industry.

Nominations for the Inspiring Individual Award close on Wednesday 10 May 2023. To nominate an individual for the award, it is necessary to provide an explanation as to why the person is deserving of the honour. Nomination forms can be downloaded from the Comms Council website at https://commscouncil.nz/news/inspiring-individual-award and should be sent to awards@commscouncil.nz by the deadline.

The recipient of the Sandy Smith Inspiring Individual Award, which will be announced at the Beacon Awards Show on Thursday 15 June 2023, will be granted $10,000 to further their education, providing an opportunity to gain additional experience and knowledge that they can share with others.

The Inspiring Individual Award was first introduced at the Comms Council Media Awards in May 2011, and previous recipients include Richard Fenner, Liz Fraser, Alistair Jamison, Louise Bond, Claire Harris, Chrissy Payne, Julia-Ann Hedges, Matt Bale, Robert Harvey, Anne Lipsham, Sean McCready, and Gina McKinnon. If you know someone deserving of this award, nominate them today!