Our Judges

Managing Director & Founder | Essential Workwear

George Georgiou, Founder and Managing Director of Essential Workwear, has grown the company from a one-man operation into a nationally respected provider of premium branded workwear over nearly 30 years. He continues to drive improvements across operations, training and communication, with this progress being recognised through two customer-awarded accolades from major blue-chip clients this year, highlighting the team’s consistency, precision and dedication. George remains committed to people development, strong leadership and maintaining deep community roots.

Operations Director | Essential Workwear

Louis Georgiou, Operations Director at Essential Workwear, is the next-generation leader preparing to guide the company forward. After studying Maths & Economics and gaining international experience in Canada, he returned to the UK in 2017 and worked across multiple departments at Essential, including hands-on production during COVID. Louis now oversees operational performance across the UK and Europe, driving efficiency, communication and service improvements. With a planned transition into Managing Director, he is focused on modernising processes and building future capability.

Head of Sales UK & EU | Essential Workwear

Harry Ashby, Head of Sales at Essential Workwear, brings over eight years of industry experience and a strong record of driving commercial growth. In just over two years with Essential, he has seen both the team and the wider business go from strength to strength through continued collaboration and customer focus.

Harry thrives on the variety each day offers, embracing new challenges with enthusiasm and determination, and is passionate about delivering exceptional results for clients and colleagues alike.

CEO | Aegis Group of Companies

As the founder and CEO of Aegis Group of Companies, I have 20 years of experience in providing security, cleaning, and facilities management solutions to a large and diverse client base. I have led the growth and expansion of Aegis Group from a small start-up to a leading facilities solutions provider, with a reputation for delivering high-quality service.

My many years in the industry has cultivated my expertise in this field, and I continue to seek to innovate and improve our services, processes, and systems. I am driven by the mission of enhancing the safety, security, and well-being of our clients and staff.

Head of National Operations | Aegis Group of Companies

As the Head of National Operations at Aegis Group of Companies, I am responsible for the comprehensive operational management of our entire service portfolio, which includes security, technology and facilities services. I have worked in the industry for over 25 years with previous positions held as the Head of Security for Ladbrokes Coral Group and First Choice Facilities.

Strategic Partnerships & Training Leads | Aegis Group of Companies

Chloe Daly represents the Aegis Group of Companies, contributing to business development across training, strategic partnerships, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). With a focus on fostering strong partnerships, enhancing accredited training delivery, and driving both commercial growth and community engagement, she brings a well-rounded perspective to the panel.

Managing Director | Red Event Production

Oliver is the Managing Director of Red Event Production, an award-winning audio visual production company delivering high-impact events across the UK. With extensive experience supporting brands, venues and small businesses, he is known for his meticulous attention to detail, collaborative approach and commitment to excellence. Oliver brings a practical, commercially focused perspective, grounded in real-world experience of building and growing a successful creative business.

Operations & Hire Manager | Red Event Production

Sam brings a strong background in live events, music and audio visual systems, with extensive experience in client management and technical delivery. At Red Event Production, he oversees logistics, production and commercial performance, working closely across sales, production and warehouse teams to ensure every project is delivered seamlessly, on time and on budget.

Head of Finance | ADA Cosmetics

Nicola began her career in the hospitality sector before moving into the world of Finance. Over the last 15 years, Nicola has gained her accounting accreditations whilst championing and developing the instrumental role the Finance function has in every area of a successful company. Passionate about striving for team progression and embracing new skills, Nicola loves to continually learn! In her spare time, Nicola is a governor at a local school and is kept very busy being a mum to a fun and active 8-year-old!

Head of Supply Chain | ADA Cosmetics

With over 20 years of experience in supply chain and logistics, Andrew has worked across sectors from charitable retail and electronics to B2B distribution. He joined ADA Cosmetics in 2017 and still loves the variety and collaboration that come with working alongside teams across the global business. Outside of work, Andrew’s often found out running, tending his allotment, or exploring the UK coast in his campervan — happiest with a good coffee and a sea view.

Director | Bartham Group

I grew up in Bury Park, Luton, near Kenilworth Road stadium, and serve as Community Ambassador for Luton Town Football Club. As the owner of Bartham Press and founder of Community Interest Luton, I lead initiatives to improve local lives, bringing extensive business, charity, and community experience.

Director | Foxley Kingham

Karen has been based at our sister firm GKP since 2017 and during 2024 she joined the board at Foxley Kingham coming round full circle to where Karen completed her formal accountancy training with the firm.

Karen’s client base covers all sectors ranging from small sole trade business to large multinational groups but her preferred work is helping clients to grow and develop their business, offering no nonsense straight forward advice.

Outside of work Karen spends her time with family, friends and her horse, Paddy.

Director | Foxley Kingham

Zeeshan has been with Foxley Kingham since leaving Brunel University over fifteen years ago, originally joining us as an accounts’ trainee. Zeeshan heads up FK Medical with Darren, specialising in medical practitioners’ financial affairs. In addition to medical clients.

Outside of work, Zeeshan’s time is split between spoiling his daughter and a love of playing football, a sport which has not been kind on his knees and once contributed to a broken wrist!

Founder | Greenwood Drones

Harvey Greenwood is the founder of Greenwood Drones, a Bedfordshire-based aerial services company delivering professional drone photography, videography, inspections and surveying across the UK. Harvey launched the business in 2023 and has rapidly built a strong reputation across commercial, construction and media sectors. In 2025, he was named Young Business Person of the Year at the Bedfordshire SME Awards, recognising his entrepreneurial leadership and business growth, with innovation, reliability and client focus.

Director | Jaltek

Stephen joined the team at Jaltek as Business Manager in 2016. His depth of industry experience enables him to fully support our existing and new customers.

Stephen brings more than 25 years of electronics manufacturing experience to Jaltek. He started his career in Production Management before moving into various Operations, Commercial and Customer facing roles with a number of UK and European Contract Electronics Manufacturers. Working with customers in a range of industries including Security, ANPR, Audio, Photonics and ATEX products across EMEA and North America.

Business Development Manager | Jaltek

Claire, who joined Jaltek in 2019 as a Business Development Manager, has a wealth of industry experience and knowledge to support Jaltek’s existing and new customers.

Claire has over 30 year’s experience in the Electronics Industry, working with a number of UK based Contract Electronics Manufacturers. She started her career as a keen apprentice, straight from college, working her way up via various positions in operations and quality before finally finding that she was naturally attributed to customer support. She has worked with significant high reliability customers in the Semiconductor, Oil & Gas, Automotive, Industrial, Laser & Optics Sectors.

Head of HR | Liebherr GB

Sara has worked within Human Resources for over 20 years for a variety of companies. She joined Liebherr-Great Britain and Ireland as Human Resources Manager some 14 years ago where she set up the HR Department from scratch. Now as Head of HR and Payroll with a team of 5, they support in excess of 400 employees spread out over 9 sales and service centres across the UK and Ireland. Sara feels privileged to be a judge for the fifth year running and is excited to see what the future holds for these outstanding businesses.

HR Generalist | Liebherr GB

Julie has worked within Human Resources for over 20 years for a variety of sectors.   She joined Liebherr-Great Britain and Ireland in 2019 supporting across all areas of the business, especially our internal apprenticeship scheme.   She is passionate about guiding apprentices to become fully qualified employees of the future.  Julie is delighted to be asked to bring her insight to the judging panel.

Head of Commercial Operations | Luton Rising

Linsey Sweet is Head of Commercial Operations at Luton Rising, responsible for the organisation’s portfolio of revenue-generating assets beyond London Luton Airport. She oversees the Luton DART fast transit system and other commercial activities that enhance passenger journeys and promote sustainable transport. Since joining over three years ago, Linsey has strengthened commercial performance and maximised long-term value, ensuring income continues to support strategic investment and community benefit.

Head of Marketing | Luton Rising

Manaaz Akhtar is Head of Marketing at Luton Rising, leading brand, communications and stakeholder engagement for the owner of London Luton Airport. Drawing on extensive experience in strategic campaigns and community-focused messaging, Manaaz oversees multi-channel marketing that supports sustainable growth, strengthens reputation and builds trust with local communities and partners. Her work ensures Luton Rising’s investments, initiatives and benefits for Luton and the surrounding region are clearly articulated, consistently branded and widely understood.

Principle Consultant & Founder | Resourceful People Group

Steve is a seasoned HR professional with over 25 years operating as a commercially focused global HR director.  Steve created the Resourceful People Group to work with clients to help both businesses and individuals successfully navigate change, enabling and supporting their growth towards greater success.

Director | RSP UK

After a decade of experience in legal, financial and sales roles, Charlie, alongside her engineer husband Lloyd, took the first step in business ownership in 2013. They recognised an increasing opportunity within the UK construction, utilities and civils sectors and, after turning their first business into an employee-owned trust, were selected as the obvious choice of UK partner for the premium German manufacturer RSP. Since RSP UK was formed in 2016, the business has gone from strength to strength and has grown to a team of over 40 specialists now serving customers all across the UK.

Director | Talk UK Telecom

With a strong background in sales and a passion for people, Justine is committed to building genuine, lasting relationships within the business community. She leads with a “people first” mindset, ensuring that every customer across Talk UK feels supported, valued, and well looked after. Her focus on transparency, collaboration, and service excellence underpins Talk UK’s reputation for doing business the right way. Justine also sits on the board of the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, reflecting her dedication to supporting local business growth and community connections.

Director | Talk UK Telecom

Gareth combines deep technical expertise with a calm, methodical approach that gives customers complete confidence in their telecom solutions. He’s driven by creating future-ready systems that help businesses stay seamlessly connected and supported. Known for his analytical thinking and meticulous attention to detail, Gareth ensures every Talk UK solution is robust, secure, and perfectly aligned with each client’s needs. His reliability and precision are at the heart of Talk UK’s trusted service.

Principal of Central Bedfordshire College | The Bedford College Group

Sue joined the Group in 2024 and puts students at the heart of everything we do at Central Bedfordshire College.  It is extremely rewarding to challenge our students, deliver positive experiences to support them and the community to succeed, flourish and achieve their ambitions.

Principal of Bedford and Shuttleworth College | The Bedford College Group

Karen is passionate about working within an organisation that provides staff with the opportunity to continue to learn and study as well as one that invests in its local community. She is a graduate of both the University of Greenwich and the University of Bedfordshire, where she has been awarded various diplomas and certificates in Teacher Education, Professional Development as well as Strategic Leadership and Management.

Commercial Operations Director | THSP

Kirsty is Commercial Operations Director at THSP, an employee-owned Health & Safety and HR consultancy. With a strong background in commercial strategy, business growth and operational delivery, she works closely with SMEs to turn compliance into a competitive advantage. Kirsty was named Business Woman of the Year 2022 and is actively involved in regional economic initiatives, supporting ambitious local businesses to scale sustainably and responsibly.

Director of Finance | Wenta

David is the Director of Finance at Wenta, responsible for managing the finances and reporting for the organisation. David joined Wenta in July 2023 and has extensive experience in e-commerce, mergers and acquisitions, management accounting and reporting, and strategic planning, having qualified as an accountant in 1993. David is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and enjoys skiing, wood carving and gardening in his spare time.

Director of Client Services and Engagement | Wenta

Jennifer is Wenta’s Director of Client Services and Engagement and leads on Wenta’s business advice and support services, its centres, digital services as well as Wenta’s communications and engagement strategy. Jennifer joined Wenta in 2012, and has extensive experience in leadership, programme and project management, communications and marketing strategy, copywriting, website creation, public relations, press and media, social media strategy and management.  Jennifer is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, with qualifications in Law, Music and Media Business Management and Artificial Intelligence.  She is certified carbon literate and enjoys songwriting and time with her young family in her spare time

Group Estates Manager | Wrest Park Enterprise

David is Group Estates Manager at Wrest Park Business Centre, overseeing the development of the business park from a cold start to the busy hub of Bedfordshire’s’ entrepreneurial community that it has become today and planning ahead to ensure it is ready for the challenges of the next decade!

He has also overseen the expansion of the company to provide business centres which are now established in 3 other locations in the South of England by both acquisition and redevelopment.

Married with three grown up sons, David is a member of Woodside Church in Bedford and avid supporter of his beloved Leeds United…

Assistant Centre Manager | Wrest Park Enterprise

Beverley is the Assistant Centre Manager at Wrest Park Enterprise, where she has worked since 2011. She is responsible for the day-to-day running of the 3 business centres, working closely with a team of customer service and conferencing staff to ensure that clients and visitors receive the best possible service.

Director | Treacle Factory

Jeremy Brown is Director of Treacle Factory and co-founder of the business, established in 1999 with partner Ian Abrahams. With over two decades of experience in design, print and marketing, Jeremy has built Treacle Factory into a trusted creative partner for businesses across Bedfordshire and beyond. Passionate about quality, practicality and supporting the local business community, he brings insight, fairness and hands-on expertise to his role as an awards judge.

Director | Treacle Factory

Ian Abrahams is Director of Treacle Factory and co-founder of the business, launched in 1999 alongside partner Jeremy Brown. With a strong background in branding, print and digital delivery, Ian plays a key role in shaping creative strategy and client relationships. Known for his practical approach and collaborative style, he is passionate about championing local enterprise and sharing real-world insight to support and inspire the regional business community.

Managing Director | Austin & Carnley

David Backhouse is a highly experienced solicitor advocate.  He has extensive experience defending individuals accused of a broad range of offences.

Since qualifying in the late 1990’s David has worked in Bedfordshire & Buckinghamshire, taking on privately funded cases to ensure that his clients receive the highest quality service and guidance.  And always aiming for the best possible outcome.

His attention to detail and dedication to his clients is repeatedly praised.

Managing Director | Austin & Carnley

Debbie is a legal expert, visionary leader, and passionate advocate for legacy planning, conservation, and leadership. As the driving force behind Austin & Carnley Solicitors, she helps individuals and businesses secure their legacy with clarity, integrity, and long-term impact.

Beyond law, Debbie is dedicated to shaping a sustainable future. She recently founded the SAFKEN Foundation, an initiative focused on conservation and environmental responsibility, driven by the belief that true legacy isn’t just financial—it’s the world we leave behind.

Chief Executive | Kids in Action

One man’s vision turned into reality when Paul founded Kids in Action 30 years ago! He wanted to create a youth club for children with special needs as back in the day there were none available and that is just what he has done, with a dedicated team of staff with the same passion as himself  behind him. From renting church and school halls for many years in 2014 he found the charities forever home which with lots of fundraising and donations from trusts Paul took the plunge to purchase our very own building and transformed it into a place where the members call their club!!!! He is extremely proud of what has been achieved and continues to strive to keep making a difference to each and everyone that walks through the door.

Head of Student Experience and Corporate Communications | Luton Sixth Form College

From a degree in Education and Philosophy from UCL, to starting my career off in the Student Recruitment field, I fell into PR in your not-so traditional way. I am now Head of Student Experience and Corporate Communications for one of the oldest, largest and most academically successful sixth form colleges in the country. Call it luck, or fate but I couldn’t have chosen a more perfect career for myself. I am the youngest female, ethnic minority Head of Department in the college’s history! (I don’t know how that happened either) but I would not be where I am without the support of my family, my incredible boss and community that I am honoured to be part of.

A born and bred Lutonian, I am deeply passionate about my hometown town and the opportunities it offers. I always take great pride in championing Luton on regional and national platforms and in highlighting the talent, ambition and community spirit that exists within it- it is unmatched!

Beyond my professional role, I am fortunate to serve as a Trustee of Keech Hospice Care, Level Trust, and as an Ambassador for Step Forward Luton- I was also named Young Achiever of the Year at the Asian Women of Achievement Awards.