BT wins NI responsible company of the year award

BT has been named Northern Ireland's Responsible Company of the Year 2009. Scooping the top prize of the night at Business in the Community's Gala Awards dinner in association with resource™, BT was commended for its responsible business practices in the workplace, the community and the environment.

Sponsored by last year's winners, Coca Cola HBC NI, the award demonstrated BT's vision, determination and commitment to filtering responsible business practices throughout the organisation.

The judging panel for the category praised BT, saying: 'BT was the runaway winner of the 2009 Responsible Company of the Year title for its structured, measurable approach to corporate responsibility across a broad range of issues.

'There is clear evidence of senior management commitment to responsible business and an obvious link between BT's business and its CSR partnerships. Our judges were impressed by the strong business case BT demonstrated and by its undeniable commitment to doing good business.'

Michael Ryan, vice-president and general manager of Bombardier Aerospace and chairman of Business in the Community in Northern Ireland, said: 'This year, the Business in the Community awards are particularly significant and we are delighted that they've been better supported than ever before.

'In the midst of economic uncertainty, enlightened companies are staying committed to their corporate responsibilities and understand the positive impact it makes on their business. Thanks to all businesses and employers who entered, and congratulations to all those who made the shortlists — they are all winners.'

Commenting on the award Chris Clark, CEO BT said, 'We are absolutely thrilled and honoured to win the prestigious award for Responsible Company of the Year 2009. This is fantastic recognition of BT's Corporate Responsibility activities and our ongoing commitment not just to our employees and customers but the wider community in Northern Ireland'.

Also shortlisted for the top accolade were PWC, Marks and Spencer, Diageo, Firmus Energy and Foyle Food Group.