Over 34 years hospitality experience spanning the UK, US, Germany and Ireland in multinational groups and now an independent hotel. Caroline’s experience has included every department, giving her a unique insight into developing each department with a focus on sales. “Every individual is responsible for driving sales, whether they are front or back of house”, she also enjoys encouraging curiosity so that we, and the business can change ensuring we are the best we can be.

With over 25 years of hospitality experience with international companies spanning London Portugal and Dubai, Karim took the decision to become an Independent Hotel Owner. Settling on Horwood House, previously part of a group and sadly neglected, Karim and his team have succeeded in transforming Horwood into a renowned, multi award winning destination hotel that features prominently in the local community, which has seen Karim imparting knowledge, time and money to businesses, charities, schools and projects.

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 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 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.

Mark Taylor is a Director and co-founder of Chartergates, specialising in employment, tax and compliance matters. With more than 20 years’ experience advising businesses, Mark has extensive expertise in employment law, HR relations, employment status and labour supply chain compliance. He has successfully represented hundreds of clients before Employment Tribunals and the Employment Appeal Tribunal.
As a judge for the SME MK and Buckinghamshire Business Awards, Mark will draw on his commercial and legal experience to recognise businesses demonstrating excellence, innovation and resilience.

Kaushik Chaudhuri is a Senior Consultant at Chartergates heading up the employment and HR relations team, specialising in employment law, workplace compliance and contentious disputes. He has extensive experience advising businesses and representing clients in complex employment disputes, including matters before the Employment Tribunal and Employment Appeal Tribunal.
As a judge for the SME MK and Buckinghamshire Business Awards, Kaushik will use his substantial workplace compliance experience to recognise outstanding business achievement, excellent workplace practices and employee relations.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

Andy Jones is the Founder of The AI Cyclops and Director of Big Noise Media, with over 30 years’ experience in web design, digital marketing and business growth. He specialises in making emerging technology practical and accessible for businesses of all sizes. Through CPD-certified AI workshops and strategic consultancy, Andy helps organisations streamline operations, strengthen brand visibility and build confident, future-ready teams.

Kacper Chrabaszcz is our web designer at The AI Cyclops, a digital systems specialist with a strong background in web development, automation and AI integration. He works hands-on with businesses to design practical, scalable digital solutions — from no-code platforms to intelligent workflows. Kacper’s focus is on clarity, usability and real-world impact, helping organisations adopt technology confidently and turn ideas into efficient, future-ready systems.