THE outgoing chairwoman of York's dedicated network for professional services in the city has been nominated as a contender for the Business Personality of the Year title.

The board of directors at York Professionals has put forward Rachel Goddard for the award in recognition of "all she has done for and contributed to the city, it's economy and the professional services industry".

York Professionals was founded in 2001 by representatives from York's professional services, committed to raising the profile of York as a city for business.

Ms Goddard joined the board in May 2002 and went on to become its Chairwoman in 2011.

After serving a four year term, even though only ever promising three years, Ms Goddard is due to step down in September 2015 but will remain a board director working to support the incoming chairwoman and continuing to play her part in championing the professional services sector in York.

The time Ms Goddard has dedicated to York Professionals is alongside her day job running Intandem Communications - a marketing and PR consultancy which she set up in 2002.

A science graduate with a background in corporate communications, Ms Goddard works closely with clients in both the private and public sector, helping businesses to flourish and grow.

Ms Goddard also sits on the board of Venturefest Yorkshire, an exhibition created by York Professionals to provide innovation, motivation and support to entrepreneurs, business people, investors and professionals working in science, technology, creative and high growth businesses.

The York Professionals board said: "With specific experience of working in construction, agriculture, green technology and renewable energy, professional services, manufacturing, higher education and science and technology based industries, Rachel has utilised her experience, contacts and business acumen to help shape York Professionals into what it is today.

"Rachel is a keen driver of York Business Week. Her vision, insight, determination and time helped support the development of the week and continues to secure the support of city wide partners, creating yet another outstanding example of collaboration."