On Thursday morning, the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce recognized four local business leaders at its 4th annual Business Achievement Awards.

Wilmington-based contract research organization PPD received the Chamber Advocate award for its high level of member participation and financial support of Cape Fear Future, Leadership Wilmington and Work on Wilmington. Additionally, the company has contributed to the transformation of downtown Wilmington with its about $200 million investment in the north side neighborhood. PPD Chief Operating Officer Bill Sharbaugh accepted the Chamber Advocate award on behalf of the company.

On behalf of a number of individuals responsible for the new Wilmington Convention Center, the chamber presented the Community Advocate award to Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo. Studies in 1966 and 1979 outlined the importance of building a convention center in Wilmington and several former mayors including Hamilton Hicks, David Jones, Harper Peterson and Spence Broadhurst had been involved in the lengthy process.

Founder of North Carolina Coastal Land Trust Camilla Herlevich received the Progress Energy Community Champion award for her work with the non-profit organization that has protected more than 40,000 acres of barrier island beaches, riparian corridors and other special natural areas since 1992.

Publisher of Greater Wilmington Business Journal and Wilma Magazine Rob Kaiser received the Chamber Champion award for his leadership on the Chamber’s Cape Fear Future initiative. As a member of the executive committee, he pushes the organization to have the mindset of an entrepreneur.