In 2008, DealMakers introduced the DealMaker of the Year award, a subjective award made to the person judged by his/her peers and the Independent Selection Panel, to have provided an exemplary and outstanding service. Any person whose work is involved with corporate finance or the provision of services to deal making in South Africa may be nominated.

While aware that this award may be controversial, DealMakers concluded that individuals are entitled to be recognised for the services they provide to an expanding and vital element of the South African economy.

The nominations received for this award over the past 13 years speaks to the point made previously in the Feature’s introduction. Just three women have been shortlisted over this period.