Melissa is crowned future pro.manchester Entrepreneur of the Year

Melissa Davis, occupational psychologist at Carter Corson, claimed the title of future pro.manchester Entrepreneur of the Year at the finalé event at Epernay last night.

Melissa showed innovative edge and entrepreneurial flair to claim the overall winner slot, while Katherine Waugh (Addleshaw Goddard), Rob Woollen (Innospace), Dan Gledhill and Victoria Richardson (both from RMS PR, Design & Marketing) all achieved recognition as finalists.

The future pro.manchester Entrepreneurial Challenge was set up in partnership with Crain’s and Innospace to recognise innovation and entrepreneurship in financial and professional services.

The judges praised Melissa’s consistent performance throughout the three month challenge. Her written responses to scenarios set by the judges demonstrated her ability to adapt, to show business acumen as well as creative thinking.

Melissa clinched her title following a gruelling dragon’s den style interview with  five judges – chairman of pro.manchester Sue Webster, successful entrepreneur Vikas Shah, Creative Lynx’s David Hunt, Innospace’s Madeleine Jarvis and Dr Clare Schofield from MMU. The judges commented on Melissa’s natural confidence, personable approach and passion for her work.

Working for business psychology consultancy, Carter Corson, Melissa has demonstrated entrepreneurial talent in her professional career having been awarded Chartered status in only two and a half years and rapidly progressing to consultant level.

Commenting on her achievement, Melissa said: “I’m so excited to have won the title as it was clearly a competitive field. The challenge has been a great experience and made me think hard about the value of entrepreneurship and the importance of thinking about things in new ways. Although it’s been a real challenge, I’ve enjoyed the whole experience and now have a massive sense of personal achievement.”

Alex Solk, who chairs the future pro.manchester group, added: “We set out to celebrate entrepreneurship in the professional sector and have had incredible feedback from members throughout this inaugural challenge. Melissa represents what entrepreneurship is all about and the challenge has also given our members plenty to think about in terms of how they can apply innovative thinking to their professional lives.”

For more information on future pro.manchester visit www.promanchester.co.uk/future_promanchester