Andy Palmer (the CEO of Gaydon-based Aston Martin (www.asstonmartin.com)) was presented with the Neville Bain Memorial Award at the national finals of the IoD’s Director of the Year awards ceremony — for taking the car company to its first annual profit since 2010 and on to a stock market listing, which was described by the judging panel as a “testament to good leadership skills”.

IoD director general Stephen Martin said: “Congratulations should go to Andy Palmer, who has led a flagship British brand with dedication and assurance.

“He has also guided the company to a stock market listing with all of the additional scrutiny that implies, underlining the role that good governance can have in ensuring an organisation’s success.”