Named the ‘Power Entrepreneur’ by the Liverpool Echo, Jim Clarke, Chairman of Clarke Energy achieves yet another businessman of the year award at the Echo’s Regional Business Awards 2015. Clarke Energy also picked up UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) International Trader of the Year at the awards night.
The Black-tie ceremony was held at St George’s Hall and was attended by 500 business leaders from around Merseyside. Gerald Ratner, jewellery entrepreneur was the guest speaker for the evening, which was hosted by Ranvir Singh, ITV’s journalist and broadcaster. Jim Clarke was recognised for having led his business from small beginnings in 1989, when it had sales of just a few tens of thousands of pounds, to a £240m turnover firm with operations in many countries around the world.
Receiving his award, Mr Clarke said:
I can’t imagine that anyone could have had more fun than I have building this business over the past years. This is a shocking surprise. I would like to reflect a bit on Liverpool. I came down here in 1989 and when I came here the place was a complete surprise. I was shocked to come to Liverpool and see buildings like this, St George’s Hall, run down and no investment in the area. Over the years there has been a fantastic redevelopment of the city which is down to everyone in this room who believes in the area. The difference between then and now is unbelievable – well done Liverpool.
Clarke Energy bagged the UKTI International Trader of the Year award. Jim Clarke and his son Jamie Clarke, Chief Executive Officer, joined their staff on stage to receive the award. There was some fierce competition with companies such as, Sovex and ALG International Holdings who made the final three.
It was safe to say it was an excellent night all round for Clarke Energy who all thoroughly enjoyed the evening.