The 2025 Business Leader Awards have recognised the outstanding individuals shaping the future of business. These visionary leaders are driving innovation, championing progress, and making a lasting impact in their industries. This year, we honour those who have gone above and beyond in leadership, resilience, and strategic excellence.

Our 2025 Business Leader Awards Winners

HSBC’s Prachi Misra is this year’s UK Business Leader of the Year, recognised for her leadership in procurement, risk management, and strategic development. She has played a key role in optimising operational efficiencies, leveraging technology to streamline processes, and enhancing supplier relationships. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Prachi has helped HSBC drive long-term value while mentoring emerging leaders in procurement and financial strategy.

International recognition goes to Kids Operating Room CEO David Cunningham, named International Business Leader of the Year. His leadership in expanding surgical access for children in low-resource settings has been instrumental, overseeing the creation of operating rooms and implementing solar-powered solutions to improve healthcare access. Under his guidance, Kids Operating Room has built over 100 operating rooms worldwide, training local surgical teams and deploying innovative solar-powered solutions to ensure continuous healthcare access.

At SBFM, Matthew Chapman, winner of CEO of the Year, has led the company through a period of significant expansion and innovation in facilities management. His commitment to social impact and technological advancements has positioned SBFM as an industry leader, introducing proprietary digital solutions that improve service efficiency and launching initiatives that empower employees through training and career development.

SignWow and Tom Bell take home Most Innovative Business Leader for their work in improving accessibility for the Deaf community. Their video relay service enables British Sign Language (BSL) users to communicate with businesses more effectively, setting a new benchmark for inclusivity in customer service and corporate communication.

Digital transformation is the focus for Grow Patiently, led by Hugo Trace, winner of Best Business Leader in Digital Transformation. By bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients, Grow Patiently has enhanced patient engagement through innovative marketing technologies, making healthcare more accessible and personalised.

Financial operations within the National Association of Funeral Directors have seen improvements under Knightwood and Hussain Rahim, this year’s Best Business Leader in Finance. Rahim has introduced AI-driven automation and enhanced financial oversight, streamlining internal processes and supporting more effective financial management within the organisation.

In the tech space, Leadership Through Data‘s Jacqueline Stockwell secures Best Business Leader in Technology, recognised for advancing training solutions in data governance and compliance. Her focus on empowering businesses to manage data securely and efficiently has reinforced the importance of regulatory compliance in the digital age.

BWB Technologies Ltd, led by Hozan Edwards, claims Best Business Leader in Manufacturing for pioneering sustainability in laboratory instrumentation. His leadership has driven innovations that reduce environmental impact, with a strong commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and increasing energy efficiency in scientific equipment.

In the health and wellbeing sector, Blüm Health and Michael Watts, named Best Business Leader in Health & Wellbeing, have introduced cutting-edge healthcare software that streamlines patient-provider communication and enhances operational efficiency in medical settings.

A bold force in the property sector, Elliot Leigh wins Best Business Leader in Property. Their guaranteed rent scheme has introduced an innovative approach to property management, enhancing financial stability for landlords while supporting the provision of quality housing solutions in partnership with local authorities.

Marketing expertise meets social impact at Eaglestone Agency, where Matthew Bridger, winner of Best Business Leader in Marketing & Advertising, has developed strategic digital campaigns that drive client engagement while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical marketing practices.

Fresh Start Charity and Angela Gregg win Best Non-Profit Business Leader, recognised for their dedication to empowering vulnerable individuals and fostering long-term social change. Through innovative community programmes, Fresh Start Charity has provided critical resources, skills training, and employment pathways, ensuring sustainable support for those in need.

Bear Burners Ltd and Rachel Spence, taking home Best Business Leader in Retail, have built a thriving brand with an impressive online presence, leveraging social media and digital-first marketing strategies to drive business growth and customer engagement.

Catering excellence is at the heart of Salters Events, with Ian and Robyn Salter winning Best Business Leader in Hospitality. Their commitment to high-quality catering services has established their company as a trusted provider for weddings, corporate functions, and bespoke private events.

At just 20 years old, CLM Recruitment UK Ltd‘s Chloe Marsh, winner of Best Business Leader in Recruitment, has demonstrated remarkable business acumen, successfully growing a recruitment agency that connects talented professionals with industry-leading employers.

Championing education and skills development, EducateMe Group and Vinod Siyani claim Best Business Leader in Training & Education, offering essential skills training and global study opportunities to students looking to advance their careers.

Young entrepreneur Nicholas Demetrios of Onyx Function Suite & Nyx Heswall secures the Best Young Business Leader award. Taking over his family business at a young age, he has revitalised the venue, expanding its offerings and strengthening its ties to the local community.

Finally, Merriebank Lettings celebrates a well-earned win for Best Family Business Leader, thanks to the dedication of Dean and Sophie Faulkner. Their hands-on approach to property management and customer service has built a strong reputation for trust and reliability.

Our 2025 Business Leader Awards Finalists

• Hozan Edwards, BWB Technologies Ltd – UK Business Leader of the Year
• Prachi Misra, HSBC – Best Business Leader in Finance, International Business Leader of the Year
• TCW – Best Business Leader in Digital Transformation
• Richard Ross, Ubique Risk Management Limited – CEO of the Year
• Ubique Risk Management Limited – CEO of the Year
• Kate Millar, Embrace – Most Innovative Business Leader
• Viki Tahmasebi, THG Experience – Best Business Leader in Hospitality
• Linda Stringer Individual Estate Agency Ltd – Best Business Leader in Property
• Nicholas Demetrios, Onyx Function Suite & Nyx Heswall – Best Family Business Leader
• Hugo Trace, Grow Patiently – Best Business Leader in Health & Wellbeing
• Kallum Gethins, The Weymouth Carnival C.I.C – Best Non-Profit Business Leader
• Hawthorn International LTD – Best Business Leader in Manufacturing
• Robbie Gaffney, Lucidity Group – Best Young Business Leader
• Tom Bell, SignWow – Best Business Leader in Technology
• Phoebe Mason, Bramble & Co – Best Business Leader in Marketing & Advertising

Recognising Excellence in Leadership

The 2025 Business Leader Awards highlight the extraordinary individuals who are shaping industries, pioneering innovation, and redefining leadership. From fostering sustainable business practices to embracing digital transformation, these leaders exemplify the qualities needed to navigate today’s dynamic business landscape.

This year’s winners and finalists showcase resilience, strategic vision, and a commitment to driving positive change. Their achievements serve as an inspiration for future business leaders, demonstrating that leadership is not just about growth and success but also about creating meaningful impact in the world.

Congratulations to all our winners and finalists—we celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to seeing how you continue to lead the way in your respective industries.