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The leading lights of the invoice finance industry were recognised for their
educational achievements at the FDA Education Awards Dinner in London on 23
February at the Café Royal, Piccadilly. And what a night it was.
140 people from the invoice finance industry came to this black tie affair to
recognise and celebrate the efforts of those professionals within the industry
who are applying their abilities to further their qualifications and careers.
Managing Directors networked with staff from their own companies and others,
as everyone began the evening with a glass of champagne. The Champagne Reception
was followed by a three course meal, before which Jeff Longhurst (Chairman of
the Governors of the Educational Foundation and CEO of IGF) welcomed everyone
with a speech which was perfect for the occasion.
Following dinner it was John Inverdale's turn to take centre stage and he did
so with style and professionalism - which he did with a very amusing speech.
By the time it was John's turn to start to host the award ceremony it was clear
that everyone was thoroughly enjoying themselves. Kate Sharp, Chief Executive
Officer of the FDA, also said: "This year is the FDA's 10th anniversary
and the invoice finance industry has come along way during that time. However,
for this industry to build on this growth, it is important that we continue
to invest in the education and training of our biggest asset - our members'
people."
During the evening the winners of ten awards, generously sponsored by organisations
who had contributed to the success of the FDA's Educational Foundation, were
announced. They included everything from Top Foundation Course Student to FDA
Lecturer of the Year. As each of the nominees were announced, huge cheers from
proud and supportive colleagues accompanied their name and photograph on the
big screens either side of the stage.
The following are this year's winners:
As a surprise, the FDA also awarded 2005s 'Lifetime Achievement Award' to
Ted Ettershank - the Managing Director of Lloyds TSB Commerical Finance. Ted
Ettershank has worked in the invoice finance industry for over 36 years. It
took him just seven years to reach the level of MD where he has remained ever
since. Today he is the Managing Director of one of the market leaders in the
industry. He has led the way in product development and must take much of the
credit for taking invoice finance out of a niche and into a mainstream finance
option. He played a major role in establishing the FDA as we know it today and
has served on both the Executive and Educational Foundation committees since
today's Association was formed. He was visibly touched by the gesture and his
dance with Kate Sharp in celebration proved a fitting end to the awards ceremony.
This only left John Inverdale the job of finishing the ceremony and introducing
the band. The live music included all kinds of classics and went on well into
the morning.
The FDA would like to extend its thanks to all those who help to make the FDA
Educational Programme so successful and well respected. Its congratulations
are also extended to all of the award nominees and winners on their fine achievements.