Judges

The selection process for the awards involves an impartial panel of industry experts who generously volunteer their time to evaluate submissions. These individuals are chosen for their expertise and experience.

Judges review entries, ensuring a fair and unbiased evaluation. In cases where judges have conflicts of interest within specific categories, they abstain from participating in the assessment of those particular entries.

Upon the submission deadline, judges receive all entries in a uniform format, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations. Each entry is then scored by the judges based on the defined criteria for each category.

Judges meet to discuss their assessments and collectively reach a final decision on a single day, solely based on the content provided in the written entries.

It is crucial to note that the entire judging process is conducted confidentially, and all decisions reached during this process are considered final.

Matthew Chapman

Harrogate BID Manager - Harrogate BID

Matthew Chapman is the Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID) manager. The BID, which is a not for profit organisation with a 5 year business plan, was voted into place in 2019 to deliver objectives to increase footfall, appearance, the business voice and much more. Having worked in construction, education, professional sport as well as 2 other Yorkshire BIDs Matthew comes with a strong operational background, can do attitude and strategic mindset.

Sue Kramer

President - Harrogate Chamber of Commerce

Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce is the one of the largest business organisations in the Harrogate area, representing businesses in all sectors and of all sizes. From one-man start-ups to large, established companies, Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce offers networking, relevant information and representation to benefit all its members and the wider business community. "Our organisation exists to support businesses and help them to grow, further increasing employment opportunities across the Harrogate District."

Stuart Wright

Managing Partner - Evelyn Partners LLP

With a specialism in audit, assurance and accounts, Stuart advises family businesses, entrepreneurs and trading groups, providing pragmatic advice for clients in a range of industries. Stuart has over 20 years’ experience providing proactive and pragmatic advice to family businesses, wealthy individuals, entrepreneurs, and large corporate groups. Stuart is Managing Partner of our Newcastle and Harrogate offices and has established a broad network of clients and professional intermediaries in the North East of England and across the UK. Stuart is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants.

Mike Patterson

Head of Employment - Berwins Solicitors

Mike is a Director and Head of Employment at leading Yorkshire law firm, Berwins. He specialises in supporting a range of businesses with the targeted advice they need to grow and flourish. He also sits on the board of directors at Harrogate BID and is an active member of Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce.

Nicola Stamford

Owner & Founding Director - The Big Bamboo Agency

Nicola is a strategic and passionate marketing, communications and proposals professional providing a ‘no nonsense’ approach to helping clients tell their story and accelerate growth. Having set up Harrogate based – The Big Bamboo Agency - five years ago, Nicola and her team work for clients in sectors including Property, FM, Engineering and Manufacturing, both in the UK and Internationally.

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