A city property consultant has been named Birmingham Young Professional of the Year.

Michael Parker, associate director with Gleeds, took home the property and construction category at last night's awards before being crowned overall BYPY 2017.

Mr Parker will now represent the city as BYPY for the next 12 months and, for the first time, will receive a fully-funded scholarship to study for an executive MBA at Aston Business School.

Sir John Peace, chairman of the Midlands Engine who led this year's judging panel, said: "Michael demonstrated a clear understanding of the strategic issues facing Birmingham over the coming years as well as a clear commitment to developing talent in the city.

"His charitable work impressed all of the judges and he is an immensely engaging and credible ambassador for Birmingham's professional community."

David Hardman, chief executive of Innovation Birmingham, was handed the inspiring leader award for his work nurturing and promoting the city's tech and start-up community.

The other winners are below and click through here to see the full shortlist:

Finance

Adam Rollason, Higgs & Sons

HR, Recruitment and Training

Rob Markwell, Pitch Consultants

Legal

Lauren Hartigan-Pritchard, Thursfields

Marketing and Communications

Ria Blagburn, GrowBeyond

Technology

James Nestoruk, Stickee Technology

Aspiring Talent (for 16 to 24 year olds still in education or training)

Sarah Fraser, Deloitte

Tara Tomes, chairman of networking group BPS Birmingham Future which organises the awards, added: "For the past 17 years, through our high-profile event, we've been able to place a spotlight on young professionals who are already creating a positive impact within their firm, the business and professional services sector, our city, and their own careers.

"As with every year, the calibre of candidates was so impressive and last night we showcased passionate and talented finalists who all deserved to be centre stage.

"Huge congratulations to our winners including Michael - his impressive career progression and dedication to the city really shone through on judging day and I am delighted we have talent like his in our city."

The awards were held at the ICC in Birmingham and presented by TV and radio broadcaster Colin Murray.