The 2009 Badenoch & Clark 'Rising Stars' Awards kick-off next month - and this year it will be even bigger, and more high profile.

This accolade, which has been specifically designed for operations staff, celebrates excellence in the financial markets. It's all about recognising talent that is clearly on the fast-track to the top.

With 10 categories ranging from client services to settlements included, the 2009 Badenoch & Clark 'Rising Stars' category winners themselves will be acknowledged at a presentation ceremony in the City early next year. All category winners will walk off with a coveted trophy, and the overall winner will also pocket a cheque for £1,000.

We will be taking the nominations for the 2009 Badenoch & Clark 'Rising Stars' Awards in early October.

And to whet your appetite, here's a quick interview Badenoch & Clark did with last year's winner, James Goodfellow from Credit Suisse.

How has the year been for you since winning the award?

'I've had a great year since winning the award - it's been a busy year and the volume of work has kept me busy - I've also taken on more responsibility which is great'.

How has it impacted on your career?

'It has really impacted my career - people frequently come up to me and ask about the Award, even now. I still get congratulations from people, even people I have never met in a professional capacity before, which means I have been exposed to a far greater number of people within the business. People have seemed to take a real interest in my career, and because we are a global organisation, I've even had recognition form offices as far a-field as Singapore!'.

Do people ask you about it?

'All the time. Mainly to find out how to enter!'.

What benefits have you got by staying at the same company since winning the award?

'Credit Suisse for me has been instrumental in building my experience because they invest heavily in staff. Technical as well as interpersonal skills are developed and they really help people with ability progress'.

What challenges are you facing now, compared to when you won the award?

'I'm facing some pretty drastic changes in the coming weeks as I am moving to Singapore in to the Credit Suisse office there. I'm really excited about it and looking forward to the new challenge. The fact that the Award was known to so many people in the company I think directly contributed to my new role'.

How have your day to day priorities changed due to the state of the economy?

'To be honest, I've seen little change in my position. I think there may well be a sense of stagnation in the market, but I am still as busy as I was before the downturn'.

What advice would you give to anyone entering this year's awards?

'I think making sure you have good support from your manager is key. But also, if you've had a good year and you feel proud of your achievements, don't be afraid to voice that. But mostly, I would say good luck to everyone!'.

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