Helen Broughton, managing director of Danbro, as well as Will Fletcher and Steven Broomhead, managing director and chairman of Recycling Lives, represent the county on the UK-wide list.
Grant Thornton compiled the list to inspire younger generations. YouGov research showed that only 1 per cent of 8 to 15 year olds aspire to work in business, so the Faces of a Vibrant Economy project was created to find role models around the country.Sacha Romanovitch, CEO of Grant Thornton, said: "The same research found that the top career motivations for this age group were to have fun and to help other people. To inspire the next generation we need to do more to showcase and celebrate leaders from UK businesses, public and third sector organisations.
"Our Faces are exceptional leaders, driving positive results against a clearly defined purpose. Their commitment and passion makes us want to be like them, to work with them and to learn from them.
“These leaders show us how business can be a force for good in society, how creative approaches to public services and commitment to investing in your people can drive superior results and how passion, coupled with purpose and a great idea can change the world for the better."
The Faces were chosen for holding characteristics including connecting financial profit to social purpose, growth into new areas, job creation, innovation, solving problems and challenging the status quo.