Women in Business today revealed that this year’s Awards finalists are to be invited to an exclusive overnight networking retreat ahead of the glitzy ceremony at the Ramada Plaza Belfast on November 17th.

To be in with a chance of securing a place on the luxurious overnight retreat, details of which will be announced shortly, successful entrepreneurs, business leaders and senior managers are being urged to submit their entries for the Women in Business Awards 2016 in association with Alexander Mann Solutions, before the deadline of noon on Monday, October 3rd.

Roseann Kelly, Chief Executive of Women in Business said the finalists, more than 30 of them, could look forward to a full day of mentoring, networking and learning as part of the retreat.

“A key element of the Women in Business Awards is the finalists retreat. Each year we get fantastic feedback from finalists saying it offers them the perfect opportunity away from their hectic schedules to meet with like-minded women, make new connections, take stock of their achievements and learn from others’ successes.

“As well as networking with peers, our finalists can expect to benefit from bespoke business master classes, workshops and breakout sessions.”

Sinead Murphy, a finalist in the 2015 Women in Business Awards, said of the retreat held last year at RBS Gogarburn in Edinburgh; “The retreat has left such a lasting impression. Not only am I reflecting on the conversations with like-minded businesswomen, but I’m also coming back to my own business with a fresh perspective. “It is a rare opportunity to take time out and share ideas with other women in business. The WIB finalist class of 2015 will always have a special bond well into the future and I feel honoured to be part of that group."

Ms Kelly added; “There is usually ample time for relaxation during the retreat, to take in the venue’s surroundings, and enjoy great food and wine.”

There are 11 categories at the 2016 Women in Business Awards and for the first time there will be two winners, one with a corporate background and the other an entrepreneur, in four of the categories.

The Award categories are Advancing Diversity in the Workplace, Best Customer Service, Best Exporter, Best in Professional Services, Best Marketing Campaign, Best New Start Up, Best Small Business, Outstanding Innovation, Excellence in IT, Outstanding Management and Leadership and Young Business Woman of the Year.

There will be an additional Award on the night for Outstanding Business Woman of the Year, as voted for by the judges.

Tickets for the Awards ceremony are available online to buy at womeninbusinessni.com.

Sponsors and partners of the Women in Business Awards 2016 in Association with Alexander Mann Solutions include The Irish News, Department for the Economy, the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, Danske Bank, Go For It, Diamond Recruitment and QA Travel.