Lucia Di Stazio, managing director of MRA Marketing, has been shortlisted in two categories for the prestigious Institute of Directors (IoD) South West Awards: Director of the Year and Young Director of the Year.

The awards celebrate excellence across British businesses and directors at the forefront of leadership excellence. They aim to raise awareness among IoD members, the wider business community and public of the significant contribution business leaders make to society and to the economy in our region. This year's awards event will take place at the iconic Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol on 25 May. Regional winners then go on to represent the South West at the IoD National Awards in October.

Simon Face, regional director IoD South West, said: "The judges were very impressed by the high standard of entries this year and the strong level of leadership demonstrated by directors from a wide variety of different companies. The event will highlight and reward the achievements of the South West's foremost entrepreneurs, company directors, and organisational leaders in building business success, creating wealth and growing the regional economy."

Lucia Di Stazio said: "I'm delighted to be a finalist in two categories and can't wait to attend the Annual Dinner in May. I've been a member of the IoD for over seven years and am thrilled to have been shortlisted along with directors who represent the best of the best in the South West."