The Corporate & Financial Awards has returned to once again set the benchmark for excellence in City communications. Never has corporate communications been so important as today, with different groups of stakeholders exercising increasing influence over a company’s brand. The new year brings an evolving landscape for corporate reporting, and the awards celebrate those who meet opportunity with innovation and creativity.

Those working closely with financial markets have been weathering a tough quarter-change: last year, inflation saw the UK economy lag behind the rest of Europe, and 2023 is predicted to bring even higher interest rates. The world of corporate reporting itself is also facing a shake-up, with ESG being secured more firmly to the agenda. The Corporate & Financial Awards recognises and celebrates those who have approached such challenges with confidence and creativity. 

Last year’s entries impressed judges with their innovation in the face of a changing landscape. Communicators are increasingly involved in the wellbeing of employees as well as the interests of stakeholders.

Andrew Thomas, publisher of Communicate magazine and founder of the awards, says: "The Corporate & Financial Awards is the only awards programme to truly benchmark the companies communicating to the City, and those influencing the City. 

"Corporate reporting, financial PR and reputation management are all celebrated by this awards programme. It is no surprise that last year, we saw over 50% of FTSE 500 companies, and many FTSE 250 companies and small-cap companies, enter to see their financial communications recognised and benchmarked."

Winning a gold award puts you in impressive company, with previous gold winners including AstraZeneca and Superunion, Associated British Foods and Black Sun, Airtel Africa and Friend Studio. The awards' extensive category list includes corporate websites, reporting, creativity, communications, stakeholder management and team recognition.

The awards are now open for submissions. The entry deadline is 30 June 2023. You can take advantage of the early entry offer and enter by 19 May in order to receive £100 off your total entry cost (or £150 as a magazine subscriber).

Please email Emma at emma.macdonald@communicatemagazine.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 3950 5356 for more information and support with your submissions.