Entrepreneur of the year

Dr Cyrus S. Poonawalla, billionaire chairman and managing director, Serum Institute of India, has been named EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2014, one of the world’s most prestigious business awards given by Ernst and Young (EY), a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. He received the award on February 5, 2015 at the Taj Lands End Hotel in Bombay. Former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization Dr K. Radhakrishnan was named the Lifetime Entrepreneur of the Year while eight others in seven categories were recognized for their business acumen. Keki Mistry, vice chairman and chief executive officer of the Housing Development Finance Corporation was on the nine-member panel of judges. Actor Boman Irani was master of ceremonies at the awards function.

Poonawalla, who will now represent India at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year Award (WEOY) in Monte Carlo from June 3 to 7, 2015 has in the past twice been recipient of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award — in the Lifesciences and Healthcare category in 2007 and in the Business Transformation category in 2014. The award celebrates those who are "building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses, recognizing them through regional, national and global awards programs in more than 145 cities in 60 countries,” notes the EY website.
"We at EY believe that entrepreneurs with their transformative ideas are increasingly playing a pivotal role in the nation’s progress,” said Farokh Balsara, partner EY. "In this knowledge based global economy, through our outreach efforts, we are helping entrepreneurs overcome barriers to their success. The 16th edition of the Entrepreneur of the Year program in India honors the innovative game changers who have the ability to transform their dreams into thriving businesses and inspiring others to go boldly into the future. Each of our winner’s story is a tale of grit, passion and vision and in truly inspiring,” he added.