A CHIEF executive with “a passion for excellence” is in the running for an accolade at the region’s premier awards for enterprise.

Tracey Smith, of York Science Park, has entered the Business Personality of the Year category in The Press Business Awards 2016.

She leads a team of 15, supporting over 130 resident companies located in 140,000 square foot of space, across two sites and five buildings.

Along with the regular duties of a chief executive, Ms Smith also works to build an environment where team members feel empowered and supported to do their best, innovate and support each other.

“Tracey encourages individuals to share their ideas, and works hard to challenge and stretch them, instilling in her team the importance of idea development, and providing skills and drive to progress these into real improvements for the business,” the entry says.

It adds her dedication to open and honest communication expands into the team, she has built an incredible network which she uses to support her team and residents, she is a member of many different organisations, and on top of her professional career Ms Smith has always valued the importance of giving something back and is a supporter of the arts and not-for-profit organisations.

Her devotion to excellent customer service has resulted in an extremely impressive achievements, including a silver level Investor in People award, and a Customer First award, and her consistent improvements at the science park “are evidenced by increased income, improved customer reviews, achievement of strategic objectives and consistently impressive reviews from accreditation bodies”.

Ms Smith is described as balanced, calm, controlled, and passionate about her team feeling empowered, engaged and encouraged. She has also gained a number of management qualifications.

“Tracey’s fierce determination and friendly personality have made her a role model for many. Her passion for excellence, focus on the customer and desire to see others succeed makes her an impressive addition to any business, an amazing leader, and an inspiration to those around her, instilling in them that everything is possible.

“She doesn’t set out to be a great leader, she sets out to make a difference.”