We asked Sandra Leek, winner of BA of the Year 2014, what inspired her to enter for this prestigious award and how it has helped her career since. 

"I had never considered applying for the BAOTY until a friend said 'Why not?' Having spent the previous two years as a Senior Lead BA on an award winning program for a major financial institution (for which I'd also won an internal award) I thought I'd give it a go. It's very important to ensure that your application aligns with the BAOTY theme so I spent a lot of time and effort on getting this part right. I never imagined that it would lead to me winning - it was a huge shock when my name was read out!

Winning BAOTY has completely changed my, and others, view of me. I am considered a senior BA and as such have been invited to participate in webinars, work for top IT companies and join conference committees. My confidence has soared which has been a massive benefit to me. 

Would I do it all again - absolutely! It was one of the most challenging and best experiences - and surprises - of my life. I would encourage anyone to consider applying, it's certainly worth the effort. 

This year the award will be given to the person who demonstrates the most significant contribution under three key areas:

• Personal qualities: what have you done to develop collaborative relationships with customers and ensure the solutions they need are delivered?
• Business understanding: how have you developed and applied your business knowledge and skills effectively?
• Analytical thinking: what have you done to demonstrate the importance of analysing situations and requirements?

Click here to download an application form and feel free to contact us on baoty@assistkd.com if you have any questions.