The Australian Institute of Management (AIM) and CQU (Gold Sponsor) are leading the search for Australia’s best managers as the 2005 Management Excellence Awards (MEAs) are launched in Central Queensland.

The Management Excellence Awards acknowledge those managers who through courage, skill and integrity make a positive difference to the world in which we work, and the support of the Queensland community has already led to record nominations so far.

According to Arthur Hunt AIMM, Australian Institute of Management Rockhampton Chair, it is often easy to let achievements go unnoticed, which is why the Management Excellence Awards make such an important contribution.

“As a result of the MEAs, managers and leaders have the opportunity to grow, connect with and inspire other managers, and receive validation for their achievements.

“The application process for the MEAs provides a range of benefits, including the rare opportunity for managers to examine their successes, and develop further as business professionals,” Mr Hunt said.

In 2005, the MEAs will award the categories of Professional Manager, Owner Manager, Young Manager and Rural/Remote Manager, with finalists from eight regions throughout Queensland (Brisbane, Cairns, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba and Townsville) competing at the State Final in Brisbane on November 4, 2005.

This involving and supportive program is intentionally not time-intensive, focusing on two specific activities, a three-page application and a 40 minute face-to-face interview.

According to 2004 Rockhampton Professional Manager of the Year, Lynne Foley AFAIM, Executive Director (Schools) – Rockhampton District, Education Queensland, the MEAs were a positive experience for both herself and her organisation.

“The Awards offer excellent recognition to people throughout all levels of management and at different stages in their careers,” she said.

“I definitely recommend the MEAs to other managers...my organisation has received significant publicity as a result, and it is an excellent chance to take time out and reflect on what you have achieved,” Ms Foley said.

Nominations for the Management Excellence Awards can be made online at www.managementawards.com.au or by contacting the Australian Institute of Management on 13 16 48.