The chief executive of travel giant Thomas Cook, which has axed major operations in the Bradford area, has won a prestigious businesswoman award.

Harriet Green, 52, pictured, was named Veuve Clicquot business woman of the year, with the judges praising her leadership as a “model” for years to come.

Since her appointment two years ago, the company’s fortunes have soared, the share price has increased by 950 per cent. She has also tackled the issue of diversity in senior positions, with her executive committee now including four women and six different nationalities.

In January Thomas Cook announced plans for the phased closure of its remaining administrative centre at Inmoor Road, Birkenshaw, with the loss of nearly 150 jobs as part of a major cost-saving restructure. It was the second major jobs blow following the axing of its city centre call centre with the loss of 500 jobs.