A CIRENCESTER College governor has been shortlisted in a national award honouring women who are transforming the world of business.

Helen Hammond, 34, from Northleach, is one of just seven finalists in the Woman Changing the Business World award.

Marketing agency owner, Helen, launched her own company Elephant Creative in 2008 and has since been nominated for multiple business awards.

Her company is a virtual marketing agency and does not have a usual office. It is made up of freelance associates who specialise in various marketing and PR fields.

The judges short listing comments said the way Helen had developed a bold and different business model was inspiring and had great benefits for working mothers who appreciate the flexibility.

Elephant Creative has grown from Helen working on her own as a freelancer, to a team of over 25 associates.

“I am so pleased and honoured to have been nominated and shortlisted for this award,” said Helen.

“For me, setting up and running a virtual agency has been hard work, but this is far out-weighed by the benefits.”

Voting closes on February 10. To vote email director-ed@iod.com with the subject line ‘Women Changing the Business World’ and say ‘vote for Helen Hammond’.