Her Businesswoman of the Year 2011
Cilla Hegarty of NZ Tax Refunds Ltd became the 15th Her Businesswoman of the Year at the annual Her Businesswoman of the Year awards.
The judges commented that, under Cilla’s direction, NZ Tax Refunds Ltd has become one of the five fastest growing companies in New Zealand, with a turnover increase over the last two years of 1295%.
Cilla is undoubtedly the person in charge as the founder and CEO of NZTR. She describes herself as the team coach, rather than the team captain as she prefers to provide a team environment, where all 14 staff are encouraged to have input into the business.
NZ Tax Refunds has had ongoing phenomenal growth, through very tough business conditions. With a vision for the future in place, complemented by a strategic business plan, sound budget strategy and team participation, 2012 is forecast to replicate the successes of the past year and build even further on the growth phase.
The Bloom Businesswoman of the Year 2011 awards night is held in conjunction with the BLOOM 11 conference, which this year ran from 29-30 June. For the third year the event was hosted by former television presenter, Kay Gregory.
Around 120 guests, finalists and their families gathered at the James Cook Grand Chancellor Hotel to celebrate the achievements of some of New Zealand’s most proficient female entrepreneurs.
The award categories and recipients were:
Her Business Network of the Year 2011 – Melissa Haberfield – Christchurch Her Business Network
Best New Business: Sarah King – Gluten free Grocer
Most Innovative Business Idea: Cilla Hegarty – NZ Tax Refunds Ltd
Best SME (Small to medium business 6+ employees): Camilla Welch – Label and Litho Ltd
Best use of Technology: Cilla Hegarty – NZ Tax Refunds Ltd
Most Sustainable Business: Heidi Johnston – Window Makers
Most Inspirational Role Model: Vivien McCaskey – Tiddlers Multisport
Her Businesswoman of the Year: Cilla Hegarty – NZ Tax Refunds Ltd
Sponsors for the event included A J Park, Westpac, Stretton Publishing, Massey University, Mazda, YOOBEE, BDO, Kim Crawford, Pacific Resort, vidcom, Estee Lauder, Juliette Florist and James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor.
