OUR JUDGES

We have developed our judging over 18 years and our judges, all top business people within their chosen arena, have cited our awards as both the most transparent and professionally executed. Each application is scored by up to 4 different judges from a panel of up to 30 judges, all applications are seen by different members of the judging panel. The judges spend several hours and score not only their own sponsored category but several others too, this ensures transparency. The first page of questions is designed to give the judges a real feel for your business, followed by several questions that are scored from 1 to 7. It is worth noting that although all judging is computer based please ensure you upload images or screen shots of all important pages. There are no site visits or presentations involved. The finalists are chosen by adding all the scores and up to 8 entrants can make it through to the final, however if scoring is low, less entrants make it through.

Andrew Becconsall
Andrew BecconsallDirector of Risk and Compliance | Neves Solicitors
Andrew qualified as a solicitor in 1992. After leaving private practice he joined the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), investigating allegations of serious regulatory breaches including mortgage fraud and money laundering. Using the experience he gained, Andrew went on to assist a number of law firms as a specialist risk and compliance consultant.

As the Director of Risk and Compliance at Neves, Andrew oversees the firm’s adherence to the stringent legal regulations governing law firms.

Stewart Matthews
Stewart MatthewsManaging Partner and Head of Commercial Law | Neves Solicitors
Stewart is the managing partner of Neves Solicitors with responsibility for the day to day running of the firm, splitting his time between the three offices across the region.

Stewart has many years’ experience dealing with commercial and company matters, ranging from company sales and acquisitions, shareholder protection, options, franchise agreements, management agreements and partnership matters. He also assists clients with wider ranging commercial documents including IT/Software licences/agreements, general commercial agreements and commercial property related documentation.

Matt Roberts AssocRICS
Matt Roberts AssocRICSSenior Business Centre Manager | Capital Space LTD (Milton Keynes Business Centre)
Matt is an experienced Senior Business Manager with a 20 year career covering Leisure, Hospitality and Commercial Property. Since April 2018 Matt has been proudly leading a fantastic team as Business Centre Manager for Capital Space Ltd, Based at Milton Keynes Business Centre. The team pride themselves on providing the very best flexible Office, Studio and Workshop space for their customers on monthly rolling licence agreements. The Capital Space team also provides additional business support to SME’s with great meeting, virtual office and call handling services. Matt takes a keen interest in promoting sustainable business practices, and has trained in both Horticulture and Environmental Management. Matt has been a judge for the Milton Keynes and Bucks awards for 3 years and a National Awards judge for 2.
Tim Lee
Tim LeeOwner & Founder | Collaborate MK
Tim Lee is Owner & Founder of Collaborate MK Business Networking Community it fosters collaborations between companies through 8 networking events and a knowledge sharing workshop for Gold Members.

With over 270 businesses as members on Associate, Bronze, Silver & Gold membership options, there is something for everyone for all members to achieve “Business Success … through networking, introductions and Knowledge sharing.

Tia Goadby
Tia GoadbyCluster Director of Sales | Leonardo Hotel Milton Keynes
Tia Goadby is the Cluster Director of Sales at Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland, overseeing 3 hotels including Leonardo Hotel Milton Keynes, Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford and Leonardo Hotel & Conference Venue Hinckley Island. With a proven track record of leadership, Tia has played a pivotal role in securing awards for her hotels and co-founded East Midlands Elite, raising over £35k for regional charities. Her ongoing contributions to the events community have earned her multiple accolades, including the Special Recognition Award at the Famtastic Awards and an Individual Award at the miaList Awards.
Grace McElroy
Grace McElroy General Manager | Leonardo Hotel Milton Keynes
I began my career with Jurys Doyle Hotel Group in 2000 as a Graduate Manager, working across two of our central London hotels. Through dedication, hard work, and the support of exceptional leaders throughout my journey, I progressed through a variety of management roles across the group.
I was subsequently appointed General Manager of our Milton Keynes hotel, becoming the youngest female General Manager within the group at that time. The guidance and encouragement I received throughout my career inspired me to achieve this milestone and continue developing my leadership skills. I am continuing to grow and develop and currently undertaking an apprenticeship with Corndel – Data Driven Leader.
Developing the next generation of hoteliers is something I am particularly passionate about. I am proud to have mentored several future leaders, including three former Deputy Managers who continue to thrive within the business today as Hotel Managers.
Beyond my hotel responsibilities, I am a Director of Destination Milton Keynes and an active member of the Milton Keynes Hoteliers Association, supporting the continued growth and success of the local hospitality industry.
Samantha Hunter
Samantha HunterPartnerships & Events Manager | South Midlands Growth Hub
Sam joined SEMLEP in August 2019, having previously worked as an Office Manager for over five years in the horticultural industry, Sam has experience in planning, organisation and executing a range of events, from trade shows to conferences. In education, Sam achieved a triple distinction diploma in Business and was awarded ‘business student of the year’ and ‘highest achiever’. In her spare time, Sam enjoys spending time with loved ones and is a competitive figure athlete.
Patrick Kitson
Patrick KitsonMarketing Lead | South Midlands Growth Hub
Patrick joined the Growth Hub in 2023. Patrick’s focus is to ensure all businesses across the South East Midlands are aware of the support, advice and resources the Growth Hub provides to the local business community. Having spent over six-years working agency side, supporting clients such as Lenovo, Zoom and Sage, Patrick brings experience in developing strategic marketing programmes for global organisations. Away from the Growth Hub, Patrick is Head Coach of Wellingborough Old Grammarians RFC.

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