Hays has more than 40 years’ experience in private sector business pursuits, as well as local, regional and national government.

She was honoured at the North East Business Executive of the Year awards earlier this month.

“It was so unexpected because it was a business awards ceremony,” said Hays. “At first I thought it was going to be John [Hays, husband and Hays Travel founder] and then somebody else. It was an amazing night and I felt very emotional.”

Hays was recognised for the bridges she has build with the north east business community during her time as chief executive of South Tyneside and Sunderland City councils.

Her 42-year career to date has also seen her hold the post of director general for local government and regeneration with the government’s Department of Communities and Local Government.

She was awarded a CBE for services to local government in 2008.

Hays Travel, meanwhile, has grown significantly over the past 15 years. In April, the company celebrated having completed £1 billion sales in a single year for the first time. It has more than 170 retail stores across the country and now employs in excess of 1,000 people.