Chartered Manager of the Year 2025: who made the shortlist?

Dr Said Juma Al Darmaki CMgr FCMI

Said is HR director at Arabian Industries, an industrial and engineering group in Oman which works on large-scale government projects and others that are nationally strategic.

His approach is resolutely people-focused. During one major restructure, Said ensured 90% of the staff affected were placed in alternative roles, with no grievances. He’s also delivered a 35% improvement in employee engagement – and even introduced mindfulness sessions.

The judges praised Said as an “extremely proactive” leader who combines inclusive leadership, ethical judgment and a commitment to strategic thinking. They also praised his blind screening initiative, which helped female employees gain promotions, with one judge flagging its significance “given the cultural context of the candidate’s work”.

Being shortlisted reinforces my commitment to ethical leadership, continuous development and creating sustainable value for organisations and the wider community

Katrina McVitie CMgr FCMI

As the key outputs lead at Transpennine Express, Katrina worked on the Transpennine rail route upgrade, working with the company’s partners to align delivery plans, governance and senior reporting.

With Katrina on board, services became faster and greener. Her leadership was central to the company achieving 25% electrification of the routes between Stalybridge and Manchester and Church Fenton and York.

The judges recognised Katrina as “the glue that brings the organisation and the industry together”. They also called her a “pillar of strength and positivity”, who is able to navigate complex engineering challenges while maintaining a leadership style centred on people and results.

I became Chartered to hold myself to a higher standard. I’m proud of what we’ve delivered together and energised for what comes next