Armed with a simple idea of combining his passion of golf with comedy and business, Neil created an annual charity event that has become one of the highlights within the IT channel calendar attracting people from all corners of the UK, Europe and the US.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this award,” he said. “It just seemed obvious to me that we could bring successful people from the IT industry and channel together, look after them for the day and encourage them to give a little back to those who need it most. It has been its own reward, and I’ve made great friends along the way. I’ve loved every minute, and this year’s event will be particularly special. But this hasn’t all been down to me alone and I’d like to dedicate this accolade to all the people who have helped organise the events over the years, all those who have donated auction prizes and finally all the people who have dug deep and donated to so many worthy causes.”
Held at Bramley Golf Club every November, the event is a mix of competitively contested golf, a charity auction of sporting memorabilia and cutting edge comedy courtesy of Mirth Control Comedy where rising stars like Jimmy Carr have cut their teeth over the years, all helping to raise money for charitable causes including Surrey Air Ambulance, the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice, Treloar College, Gosden Children’s Charity, Help for Heroes and many more.
“Neil is not the kind of person to claim credit for his courtesy and generosity, so we are very pleased that Britain herself has decided to honour him in this way,” said Olivier Breittmayer, CEO of Exclusive Group. “Our organisation and the IT channel in which we operate are built on people, relationships and trust and Neil epitomises this in everything he does. This award is testament to the person he is - a true English gentleman – and we look forward to Exclusive continuing to support his charity event for many years to come.”
Barrie Desmond, Exclusive Group COO said, “Neil’s reputation as a serial entrepreneur and successful businessman in the UK IT channel is well known. However, not everyone gets to see the man behind his public image. His compassion, selflessness and generosity is admirable and I’m delighted that this has been recognised through this accolade.”