Double act for top Kiwi businessmen

Friday 24th May 2002

Two New Zealand entrepreneurs leave next week for the Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year award in Monte Carlo - one as a judge and the other as a participant.

Former E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year Bill Day, founder of $30 million international marine contractor Seaworks, has been invited to be a member of the judging panel.

He believes enthusiasm played an important part in securing his place in the entrepreneur's hall of fame.

"There were some absolute heroes there but I think it was a case of me standing out because I can articulate enthusiasm well."

Meanwhile, this year's E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year, 31-year-old Michael Whittaker, will be taking part as an entrant in the international awards.

Mr Whittaker has developed the Atlantis group of companies as a market leader in database marketing solutions and retail loyalty.

Carol Campbell, the national director of the Ernst & Young entrepreneurial services group said: "It's Bill and Michael's award-winning combination of talent and temperament that has the ability to inspire others.

"When reviewing potential winners we were not just looking for financial achievement. In an entrepreneur you find leadership, lateral thinking and ingenious problem-solving."

Entries are due to close on June 14 for the 2002 Entrepreneur of the Year award. Application forms are available at www.ey.com/nz.

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