The Daily Record has named John M. Collard, Chairman & CEO, Strategic Management Partners, Inc. as one of Maryland’s 2014 Most Admired CEOs.

The Daily Record created the Most Admired CEOs awards program to recognize talented business CEOs and nonprofit executive directors throughout Maryland for their leadership and professionalism. The winners are selected based on their leadership and vision; competitiveness and innovation; community leadership and service; financial performance and growth; corporate leadership and board service; and nonprofit involvement.

Applications must include letters of recommendation from current staff and at least one letter from a nonprofit or board on which the CEO serves. Winners are selected by a panel of business and legal professionals and a representative of The Daily Record.

“The Daily Record honors the Most Admired CEOs not only for their many accomplishments and outstanding leadership but also for having the insight to select carefully those with whom they surround themselves,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, publisher of The Daily Record. “Their decision making, creativity, leadership and commitment to a better Maryland speak to their character and serve as an example to employees and to their communities. We at The Daily Record are honored to recognize these inspiring individuals.”

“I am honored to be selected for this prestigious award. It is high praise coming from The Daily Record,” said John M. Collard, CEO, Chairman of Strategic Management Partners, Inc.  “We serve as Turnaround Interim CEOs and outside directors for companies that are in trouble and in need of leadership. Turnarounds can be a re-beginning — we must build teams, differentiate and sell products and services, secure capitalization, and grow. It is a disgrace when boards of directors watch value deteriorate and allow their company to become distressed.” He continued “turnaround specialists can be an option to stabilize a situation and rebuild value. Turnaround management strategies and raising capital will certainly play a key role in any recovery.”