THE CEO of a Barry Waterfront consulting firm has been shortlisted for a national leadership award.

Steve Rush, CEO and Managing Director of Improov Consulting has been named as a finalist in Wales’ long-established and only dedicated leadership awards.

The Leading Wales Awards, in association with Cardiff Metropolitan University, are now in their 12th year and seek to recognise and celebrate individuals whose leadership makes a real difference.

Mr Rush has been nominated in the 'Leadership for the Future' category for his leadership role with Improov Consulting and is one of four finalists in the category.

Mr Rush said he was "humbled and delighted" to receive the nomination.

"This platform will allow me to share my philosophy that leadership is a behaviour rather than a job role.

"If you look at volunteers, parents, care-workers and even children in schoolyards, its everywhere if you look for it and it's there to be developed. It's not just about corporate life"

Barbara Chidgey, chairwoman of the Leading Wales Awards, said: “As usual, we have a really eclectic mix of leaders and exemplar of leadership across all sectors in Wales for this year’s short-list.

"It’s been a privilege to read so many fascinating stories of leadership making a real difference within a business, organisation or community project.

"We really do appreciate also the time and commitment given by everyone who submitted a nomination. We look forward to the awards Lunch and ceremony in June when we can properly celebrate our leaders in Wales”

The winners will be announced at the lunchtime awards ceremony, which will take place at the Hilton Cardiff on Tuesday, June 14.

Tickets are available at a cost of £55. Reserve your place by emailing leadingwalesawards@learningpathways.info

The alumni of past winners includes individuals such as Laura Tenison MBE, Jo Jo Maman Bebe, Mario Kreft MBE, CEO of Pendine Park Care Homes; honorary award winners include previous First Minister Rhodri Morgan and also Wales’ rugby captain Sam Warburton.

For more information visit www.leadingwalesawards.co.uk