A communications manager for a Letchworth-based business who is said to be 'often overlooked for the work she does behind the scenes' has been recognised at an awards event. 

Emily Hay, with her colleague Alice Turner, assistant communications manager, was credited with managing a large and growing flow of information to ensure everyone in the business received regular updates. 

Emily and Alice, who work for Letchworth-based Willmott Dixon, were named Team of the Year at the company's annual Creating Excellence awards. 

Winner Emily said: "This award was completely unexpected. We're not responsible for bringing projects to life, but we are responsible for making sure everyone is aware of what is happening within the business. 

"It's a very diverse job with lots of departments looking to us and it's always enjoyable getting involved in all aspects of the company."  

Willmott Dixon recently came top in the Big Company category of the Best Companies Awards that recognises the UK's top workplaces.

At the same event, Group Chief Executive Rick Willmott was named 'best leader' in a special award in recognition of how his style and approach has guided Willmott Dixon's success.

Chris Tredget, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon's London and East business, said: "We were delighted to be able to award this accolade to the communications team, who quietly go about their business. 

"They embody the one-team ethos and always do whatever they can to support our people, whether it be a small support team, an individual or a project team. They are often overlooked for the work they do 'behind the scenes' to ensure our people and our customers know what a great office this is to work in.  

"They are incredibly friendly and always helpful." 

One area where Willmott Dixon scored highly was its strategy to achieve a series of milestones by 2030, including becoming a zero-carbon company and ensuring all new buildings and major refurbishments will achieve net zero operational carbon. It is also aiming to achieve gender parity across all levels of management by this year.  

Willmott Dixon's Creating Excellence awards, which took place in London, was an opportunity for its people to nominate their colleagues for special recognition, with the winners chosen by the local senior management team. 

The winners, who received their awards from comedian and presenter Joel Dommett, go forward to the company's national Building on Better Awards in London.