Manufacturer of the year
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Category Definition & Guidelines
To assist you with this application the judges have provided some guidelines.
When providing your answers, the “For Example”/guidelines we have suggested for each question are not intended to be exhaustive. They are designed as examples and prompts to help you understand the judges’ requirements. It is important that where you state that you have evidence in support of the specific question you are answering, you need to provide that evidence – usually, a generic brochure or company overview is not sufficient.
HMA is interested in seeing initiatives that have been identified, driven, and resolved within our region (Hunter, Central Coast, Mid North Coast).
Download a category information guide here.
Additional Information
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Focus of the category
The HMA Manufacturer of the Year Award recognises outstanding overall performance for a firm in the manufacturing sector.
There are two HMA Manufacturer of the Year awards granted, covering both:
1) Larger entities (with 50 or more employees), and
2) Smaller entities (with fewer than 50 employees).
Applicants in either category will demonstrate a clear and focused strategy, a consistently high-quality offering aligned with customer needs, and strong performance across key operational and cultural areas.
They will have strong systems across the board, from production to safety, the environment and marketing. Their people will be motivated, skilled and highly productive and will be recognised and rewarded for their efforts.
Winners will not only lead within their businesses, but also actively participate in the broader manufacturing sector and contribute meaningfully to the community.
All listed criteria must be addressed where relevant, and applicants must provide evidence in support of the information submitted. Supporting materials such as photos, diagrams, videos, or presentations may be uploaded via the online application form—please label each clearly and indicate which category it supports.
Each response must be limited to 300 words or fewer.
Judging criteria & Values
Question 1:
World-Class Performance
Judging Criteria
- Provide details of any export sales you have achieved.
- Provide evidence of how your products are achieving import substitution.
- Provide details of any accreditations, such as ISO9001, that you have achieved.
Value:
3/21
Question 2:
Business Resilience
Judging Criteria
- Describe how you cultivate a culture of innovation that translates ideas into business value.
- Outline recent investments made to secure future success.
- Detail initiatives aimed at expanding diversity within your customer base and their outcomes.
Value:
3/21
Question 3:
Advanced Knowledge, Processes and Business Models
Judging Criteria
- Describe initiatives that you have undertaken to strengthen the knowledge base of your business. May include initiatives such as capability building or research projects.
- Provide examples of smart technology use, automation, equipment acquisition, or where you have developed new equipment.
- Describe any initiatives you have undertaken to create new business models. May include strategies such as niche market development, service champions, linkages with other firms.
Value:
3/21
Question 4:
Environmental Sustainability
Judging Criteria
- Describe your efforts to reduce your carbon footprint or energy saving initiatives.
- Describe any opportunities for your products or components thereof to be recycled or reused in any way.
- Describe any initiatives that you have undertaken that have reduced waste in your business.
Value:
3/21
Question 5:
Continuous Improvement Commitment
Judging Criteria
- Describe how you ensure that continuous improvement is sustained across all aspects of your business. Provide examples from different areas in your business.
- Describe initiatives you have undertaken to improve the skills of your workforce.
- Describe initiatives that have led to a measurable improvement in the health and safety of the workforce.
Value:
3/21
Question 6:
Management Philosophy and Employee Engagement
Judging Criteria
- Describe the framework you use to maintain your company's values. Do you have a values statement? Do you have a Code of Conduct? What is expected of leaders in creating a positive culture?
- Describe initiatives you have in place to keep the workforce informed and engaged. Examples might include Information sessions, CEO briefings, Video updates, Forums and Open Discussions.
- Describe any initiatives in place to recognise and reward employees for good performance and length of service.
Value:
3/21
Question 7:
Community Support and Involvement
Judging Criteria
- Describe initiatives in place to sponsor community organisations or activities and encourage worker participation in community support.
- Describe initiatives in place to foster engagement with the education and research sectors. Examples might include Schools, TAFE, University, Private Training Providers.
- Describe your involvement in industry organisations such as AIG or HunterNet.
Value:
3/21
Application Guide & tips
Want to nominate someone for HMA 2025?
Fill in the form below to Submit your nomination!
Nomination Form
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