Independent international judging panel for prestigious new IIR Middle East Business Achievement Awards

Event director Alan Kelly says the selection of a panel made up of internationally recognised and respected judges from a variety of industry sectors and disciplines gives the Dubai Holding partnered MEBA Awards a high degree of credibility, because of their experience and their independence.

"The panel has been selected carefully to ensure the judging process is fair and objective," he said. "All judges are bound by a strict confidentiality agreement and are required to declare any potential or real conflicts of interest."

Judges announced to date include one of Australia's most sought after international business presenters, Professor Alan Patching; a founder of the American Academy of Financial Management, Brett King; and Jennifer Harwood, who is internationally recognised for her business savvy and won Australian National Awards in business planning, and professional speaking.

They are being joined by the VP and General Manager of Lucas Industries in the US, Peter Elliman; the Managing Director of Chicago Capital Group, a New York advisory firm as well as a Managing Director of Gulf Capital, Waseem Anwer; and John Ford, Founder and CEO of Sydney-based world branding agency, The One Centre.

Local and regional judges include the head of Impact Porter Novelli in the Middle East region, Tim Walmsley; a founding member of the Emirates Environmental Group, Mrs. Habiba Al Marashi; and Jamil El Hage, the Head of Business News for Al Arabiya News Channel and MBC.

Nominations close on October 18 and the awards will be presented at the Leaders in Dubai Business Forum 2007 gala dinner on November 18.
"This will be a very prestigious occasion, with all of our international keynote speakers present, as well as two very special individuals who are to be separately honoured as part of the Middle East Business Achievement Awards."