1284 Communications Account Executive Lauren Cropper has been shortlisted for an Enterprising Women Award. 

She was the first finalist to be revealed when the network hosted its Summer Networking and Finalist Announcement at Whatton House, Loughborough, in June.

Lauren was named as a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year category, sponsored by Futures Housing.

Lauren, who has been with 1284 for less than a year, was shortlisted after judges were impressed with her self-determination, measurable impact and commitment to CPD. 

Having decided after college that she didn’t want to proceed to university, Lauren adopted a proactive approach - attending further college courses to finding a direct route into the profession she wanted to pursue.

She started her apprenticeship with 1284 last July and is now preparing her End Point Assessment on the highly-rated PRCA Public Relations and Communications Level 4 Apprenticeship.

Her achievements so far at 1284 include:

• Helping to securing £8,000 of funding for a local CIC after completing the Leicester Social Innovation Accelerator 
• Generating ROI on a campaign platform she helped develop, which has now applied for Innovate UK funding
• Consistently looking for and completing personal development opportunities.

Lauren said: “It’s crazy to think how far I’ve come as someone just starting out in my career, and it means a lot to be recognised alongside so many talented women and teams.

“Enterprising Women is a fantastic platform for celebrating and connecting women across our region.

“I’m looking forward to the awards dinner in September to hear more of the incredible achievements of everyone nominated.”

Founder George Oliver said: “Lauren’s approach is refreshing and completely aligns with 1284’s innovation ethos.  

“Thanks to her efforts and progress, her post-apprenticeship progression plan is already in place. 

“If this is what she has achieved in ten short months we can’t wait to see what comes next.” 

Enterprising Women is an East Midlands Chamber Network that supports female professionals in connecting, growing, and succeeding personally and professionally.

Winners of this year's awards will be announced at the Enterprising Women Awards Evening in September - click here for details and tickets.