A NORTH Tawton-based business woman is in the running for a 2014 First Woman Award. Angela Butler, finance director at warehouse and distribution provider Gregory Distribution, is in the running for the First Woman in Finance Award, following her stellar business performance since joining the company in 2011. Angela studied at Cambridge University where she graduated with a 2:1 in pharmacology before joining Ernst and Young in London, qualifying as a chartered accountant in 1991. She then went on to work for a number of PLCs in finance, system implementation, and change management. She will be competing against other worthy contenders to win the First Woman in Finance category, including Lisa Powis, CEO of Fresh Insurance Services Group, who has worked in the insurance industry for 30 years and Jean Stephens, CEO of RSM International, the seventh largest global accounting network. Now in their ninth year, the awards were founded by Real Business and the CBI, and have recognised a host of 'first women' over the years, who are paving the way for future generations of females. Out of hundreds that applied, 49 of the UK's most ground-breaking women have been named as finalists in the nationwide search, which aims to unearth and celebrate inspirational female role models from across a wide range of sectors and industries. Katja Hall, chief policy director of CBI, said: 'Businesses are committed to achieving diverse workforces and we've made real strides in helping women develop their careers and reach their potential. Celebrating the achievements of female leaders in the UK is an important part of future progress and provides real inspiration for today's ambitious young women. All of this year's nominees should be greatly admired for their achievements, and I hope their stories will encourage many more to follow in their footsteps.' The award ceremony takes place in London on June 12.