With over three decades of senior leadership in global business, John Acton is a proven strategist and growth catalyst. In 2017, John and his business partner founded peer2peer, the UK’s fastest-growing peer advisory for business leaders and entrepreneurs and a space where leaders can transform their business journeys into shared adventures. John continues to chair two St Albans-based Boards, where he facilitates structured peer collaboration, strategic thinking, and leadership alongside delivering Strategic Thinking workshops for clients nationwide.

Caitlin Barrett is a passionate, people-first leader and Managing Director of Marco Paul, a high-growth ecommerce home & garden brand nearing £15 million turnover. With nearly 20 years in retail, she leads with empathy, resilience, and authenticity. Caitlin champions inclusive workplaces and future facing innovation, including one of the UK’s first AI apprenticeship programmes. When she’s not leading her team, she’s exploring Scotland by motorbike with her wife, fuelling her love for adventure and the beauty the country has to offer.

*2025 gold county winners