At a time when the north-east needs some inspiration – and perhaps a little rock and roll – the Press and Journal has booked an amazing guest speaker for the Gold Awards in September.
Bruce Dickinson, the lead singer of one of the world’s most famous rock bands and a commercial pilot, is making his debut as an after-dinner speaker in Scotland at the 2016 Gold Awards in Aberdeen.
The lead singer of Iron Maiden will enthral an exclusive audience of 300 with his exploits which range far beyond being in one of the biggest selling bands in the history of rock.
Fresh from the band’s Book of Souls world tour, the 57-year-old will deploy his skills as a speaker to discuss how his firm Cardiff Aviation has given flight to the economic regeneration of South Wales, as well as his ambitious plans to bring Zeppelin-style airships back into use in the 21st century.
He also spearheads other vastly successful ventures in craft beer brewing, video games and literary achievement.
The event’s special guest speaker will be joined by host and TV business news personality, Steph McGovern.
The Press and Journal Gold Awards, in association with Aberdeen Asset Management, will celebrate ongoing success in the north-east in what has been a challenging time for the industry.
An esteemed panel of judges are narrowing down the North Sea leaders to be included in the night’s special Hall of Fame induction, while a shortlist of those nominated in the event’s seven award categories will be unveiled soon.
Damian Bates, editor-in-chief of the Press and Journal, said: “Fifty years ago last year, the fledgling oil industry started to emerge in a very different-looking Aberdeen. To celebrate this special milestone, the Press and Journal and its sister site EnergyVoice.com launched its very first Gold awards in 2015 to recognise those who have made a significant contribution to the sector and, just as importantly, to highlight those who will make it a success in the decades to come.
“The awards, in association with Aberdeen Asset Management, are back for 2016 with a truly inspiring programme.
“We are delighted that Bruce, who is a true legend of the heavy metal scene and is almost as widely known for his passion for aircraft as he is for his music, will join us.
“He’s an amazing businessman who has created phenomenal success and gone on to do everything from creating craft beer to writing novels and film scripts.
“At a time when the oil and gas sector needs to show agility and almost re-invent itself, what better person to inspire and motivate leaders to be creative and brave in their bid to win new markets and embrace new ideas?”
The Press and Journal Gold Awards take place on September 8 at the Marcliffe Hotel, Pitfodels. For more information see www.pandjgoldawards.com