We are delighted to announce that Ian Tomlinson of UCFB has been confirmed as an independent judge at the upcoming Wigan Business Awards, joining a distinguished panel of 30 other judges comprising the North West’s brightest business minds.
Shortlisting has taken place by an independent panel throughout the Summer, with finalists being announced in August ahead of the awards on Friday November 8 at The Edge, Wigan.
The Wigan Business Awards return after a four-year hiatus, organised by Atherton-based events business owners of Launch Events North West, Nichola Howard and Jo Leigh.
The pair launched the event with the blessing of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce: the original organisers who announced their Wigan Business Awards would not be returning after the pandemic, and would instead be absorbed by the Greater Manchester Chamber Excellence Awards.
Ian said: “It is an absolute honour to be judging these awards. As a mentor and consultant for SMEs and a Senior Lecture at UCFB within the sport and business area, I have witnessed for myself the power of surrounding yourself with a network of decent businesspeople who want to lift each other up.
“It will be a tough process to whittle down the shortlist, but I’m looking forward to celebrating the achievements of the incredible businesspeople.”
Nichola Howard, awards organiser, said: “We are committed to ensuring the awards are independently and objectively judged by people who have ‘been there and done it themselves’ - so to have Ian join our esteemed panel is fantastic.
“As organisers, we won’t be involved in deciding who the winners are - we can’t wait to see who the judges announce and to celebrate with the finalists on the night!”
Ian added: "As a consultant and academic, I understand the dedication and hard work that goes into running a business.
"The past few years have tested our resilience.
"Yet, some businesses have emerged stronger and more determined than ever. The Wigan Business Awards will celebrate not just success, but the journey and effort behind it.
"For that reason, I am honoured to be confirmed as a judge for Wigan Business Awards."
The awards received more than 500 nominations - a testament to how local businesses are committed to lifting each other up - so now I have the tough job of picking a winner out of the shortlist of finalists, along with my fellow judges ahead of the awards in November.
For more information on the awards and to buy your tickets, click here.
