A new initiative to reward the outstanding contributions of individuals to businesses and organisations has been launched with Star Business Monthly and the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce.

Open to Sheffield Chamber's 2600 plus members, the award honours exceptional achievements, performances and contributions by an individual to the success of a business or organisation. It will reflect excellence, commitment, innovation and dedication of an individual.

The monthly winners will receive a specially commissioned silver medal featuring a design made up of the Star and Chamber's combined logos in 18 carat gold plate, as well as and red and blue ribbons to reflect the respective branding colours of each organisation.

The medal has been designed by Sheffield Hallam University metalwork and jewellery graduate Carrie Browne.

Nigel Tomlinson, chief executive of the Sheffield Chamber, said: "The Medal of Merit is a fantastic way to honour individuals who go above and beyond their call of duty in the name of business.

"In light of the current economic recession it is important, now more than ever, that we are highlighting the positives in the business field and rewarding those who make a positive impact.

"We are therefore encouraging Chamber members to look to individuals in their company who deserve the recognition that this award will offer. It is these people who keep businesses driving forward, even in difficult times."

A judging panel will choose each winner and will be made up of representatives from the manufacturing, professional, public, creative and digital sectors, along with a representative from the Sheffield Chamber.

Sheffield Hallam University Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs John Palmer said: "This is another excellent example of collaboration between the Chamber, The Star and Sheffield Hallam University. What makes it more special is that it helps to recognise and reward success and we are very proud that one of our recent graduates had the honour of designing the medal."

Editor of The Star, Alan Powell, said: "We are delighted to give our backing to the Medal of Merit through South Yorkshire's leading business publication - Star Business Monthly.

"Each month we will provide details of some of the nominations and announce a monthly winner. There are so many worthy candidates in the city - and we want to give them the recognition they deserve."

Each monthly winner will qualify for an overall Medal of Merit champion of champions award, the winner to receive a special trophy at the 2009 Sheffield Business Awards.

Related attachments

• Medal of Merit