Entrepreneur of the Year 2025
Category criteria
- This award will recognise someone who has had a big impact with their own business or innovation and is open to people at any stage of their entrepreneurial journey.
- The judges will reward enterprising behaviour such as innovation, calculated risk-taking, management, leadership, vision and originality.
- The judges will also look for a positive impact on the wider economy and community.
Steve Rushton
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
Founded by Steve Rushton, Stoke-on-Trent based Training and Business Solutions Ltd is supporting hundreds of local people and businesses.
Entrepreneur Steve launched Training and Business Solutions in late 2022 using his extensive background in business development and training
His aims were to help companies provide jobs and training and to support businesses to work in partnership, engendering growth.
During 2024 the training arm supported more than 386 organisations in the public, private and third sectors, with 162 of them taking up apprenticeship opportunities or training workforce.
In addition, 246 young people aged 16 to 21 and more than 70 adults were supported by Steve.
Training and Business Solutions offers more than 50 different apprenticeships in sectors such as business services, social media, building and development, IT, finance, transport and logistics.
Steve is an official Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Apprenticeships Ambassador and to raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities he worked with 10 schools over the calendar year and delivered his own apprenticeship workshops on Sundays at Abbey Hulton Sports and Social Club and Bentilee Wellbeing Centre in partnership with Councillor Sarah-Jane Colclough.
In late 2024 Steve launched the Training and Business Solutions Ltd Trusted Partners scheme by signing partnership agreements with 21 companies. Initial forecasts estimate this will generate more than £300,000 for business partners in 2025-26.
In the first quarter of 2025 the Trusted Partners scheme generated 104 referrals, generating income for companies across a wide range of business sectors.
With many of Steve’s trusted partners based in Staffordshire this ensures money remains in the local economy. This is important to Steve, who was appointed as a Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce Ambassador in the past year.
Aged 55, Steve has spent almost 30 years working in business development and training. Prior to founding his own business in November 2022 He was Director of Partnerships at training provider Achieve Training for more than 12 years.
He said: “Supporting people into work is a passion and I have built up a wealth of knowledge over many years so I wanted to carry on and use that knowledge to support Staffordshire companies and provide pathways into work for local residents.”
Turnover at Training and Business Solutions has increased year on year, from £79,000 in 2024 to a projected £240,000 in 2025.
Steve Rushton has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and has entered Training and Business Solutions Ltd into the Skills For The Future and Small Business of the Year categories.
Adele de Caso
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
Tens of thousands of people around the world follow the daily exploits of the business run by University of Staffordshire alumna Adele de Caso and her daughter, Sofia.
Paco’s Place, in Trentham, is a Dachshund Hotel – one of just a handful in the UK.
They offer a boutique, family experience for Dachshunds when their human family members are on holiday which is so sought after that pet-lovers travel from as far as The Lake District and London to use the service.
The business, set up by Adele and Sofia in May 2018, has around 46,000 followers on Instagram and 50,000 on TikTok with some of their posts receiving hundreds of thousands of likes.
Paco’s Place is becoming a known brand sought out for collaborations by other pet-related and dog-friendly friends.
Adele and Sofia have even started travelling around Europe with their own dogs at the invite of dog-friendly hotels keen for Paco’s Place to create social media content for them – including recent trips to Italy, Austria, Spain, France and London.
“We recently did a collaboration with a hotel in Madrid and with Marriott and Sheraton hotels in London,” said Adele, who owns and runs two other businesses alongside Paco’s Place. “We are offered vehicles to use for our shoots and are invited to dog friendly events and festivals.
“Paco’s Place is our lifestyle and a passion as well as a business for us. It’s gradually becoming a brand and we will launch various branded products.”
The family set the business up seven years ago as they knew how difficult it was to find someone to care for their own Dachshunds.
“At that point I only knew about one other Dachshund hotel and I said to my husband that I’d always fancied running something like that. He just said let’s do it,” said Adele.
“We can have up to 10 dogs at any one time. They all have their own individual diets and eat at the time that suits them. We have some that don’t enjoy walks so when we take them out we have dog pushchairs as well as dogs on leads. We get a lot of attention.”
Adele has entered Paco’s Place into the Innovation and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and she has entered the Alumni Business Person of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year categories.
Ben and Michael Dyer
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
A career development and education organisation founded by cousins Ben and Michael Dyer while studying at University of Staffordshire has now impacted the lives of more than 700,000 young people around the globe.
The Stoke-on-Trent born cousins are co-founders of The Inspirational Learning Group which used innovative learning programmes to develop career readiness and employability skills.
Their flagship programme, The National Careers Challenge, in partnership with NatWest Thrive, is sponsored by Air Products, British Airways and Wickes and more than 50,000 young people across the globe will engage with the programme during this academic year.
In addition to a portfolio of challenges and an international presence that is growing at pace, Ben and Michael lead their team to produce bespoke school programmes for clients including JCB, NHS and the Financial Conduct Authority and leverage these partnerships to provide additional engagement opportunities for students in Staffordshire and beyond.
Ben and Michael are currently exploring further opportunities within India, Dubai and Hong Kong and additional opportunities in the UK which will ensure The Inspirational Learning Group continues to grow.
From humble beginnings in 2013, working from a rented office on the University of Staffordshire campus, TILG has become a market-leader in the careers education sector, with its flagship The National Careers Challenge now the largest school enterprise competition in the UK.
New partnerships developed in 2024/25 with the NHS, Financial Conduct Authority and GCHQ have widened the scope of work for the company and opportunities for additional innovative programmes for young people. These collaborations complement existing partnerships with the likes of NatWest Thrive, Air Products, British Airways, Wickes and General Electric.
Ben and Michael led the successful launch of the National Careers Challenge in China and the UAE, expanding the company’s influence and offering international students exposure to UK-based career opportunities.
Ben and Michael are committed to supporting their local communities in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, ensuring as many students as possible have access to fully funded, tailored programmes designed to prepare them for the future.
Their local initiatives include 47 primary schools taking part in the Start Small, Dream Big 2025 programme, 2,000 students from 10 schools in Staffordshire and Derbyshire participating in the JCB Solutions Challenge and all secondary schools in Stoke-on-Trent participating in My Digital Future Challenge promoting digital skills for local careers.
They have also developed Lightbulb Online, a platform providing 360-degree career exploration and accessible resources for students, including those with special educational needs.
Ben and Michael Dyer have entered the Alumni Business Person of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Kate Holt
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
As the managing director of BusinessLodge Stoke, Kate Holt oversaw the purchase and transformation of a former Npower building into high-spec serviced offices with an on-site gym.
The Staffordshire University Sports and Leisure Management alumna previously established four similar developments in Bury, Lancashire, but had never forgotten her student days in Stoke-on-Trent and saw the opportunity to do something similar in the city.
In 2019 Kate headed up the project to convert Trent House in Stoke-on-Trent and is responsible for building a professional, friendly team who aim to go the extra mile for their clients at the Stoke-on-Trent and Bury sites.
BusinessLodge Stoke had a 100% occupancy rate for most of 2024 and recently bought Heron House in Heron Cross, due to open in August 2025, to accommodate more businesses.
Kate negotiated the purchase, developed the plans and layout of the space, initiated the tender process and awarded the contract for the work. She is an advocate of using local businesses and the builders and suppliers all come from the surrounding area.
Last year Kate also opened BusinessLodge Widnes after with a full refurbishment of a building with all the amenities and services of the other BusinessLodge sites.
She is committed to working towards to net zero including through zero to landfill, insulation, eco electricity, lighting sensors and EV chargers.
Within each centre Kate and her team ensure their clients are fully supported and each treated according to their bespoke needs as they grow, take on flexible working, move to larger accommodation or downsize. They range from freelancers to an international gym equipment supply business.
The team organise social events, networking sessions and charity fundraisers for businesses based at the offices such as Nespresso pop-ups, Beautiful Bakes, Six Towns Gin and La Piccola Pizza.
BusinessLodge Stoke sponsors local events and teams including Stoke Pride, which was particularly important to Kate as a gay MD. The business sponsors five Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce events per year, Stone Food and Drink Festival, a local female footballer from Leek Town FC and the Powerchair soccer player and Your Heroes Awards winner Dylan Kelsall.
Kate Holt has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year and Alumni Business Person of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Ellina Pollitt
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
What began as a solo project for Ellina Pollitt during her time as a student at University of Staffordshire has turned into an award-winning, internationally-recognised jewellery brand.
Ellina, who co-designed the University’s mace, has had her designs featured in Vogue magazine, The Jeweller and recently had a multi-page feature about her work and career in the glossy French magazine Moevir.
Originally from Russia and now living in Biddulph, Ellina has exhibited at major national and international events such as Munich Jewellery Week, the Goldsmiths Fair and the Cluster Contemporary Jewellery Fair in London.
Her shortlisting for the 2024 NAJ Rising Star of the Year Award is a testament to the growing industry recognition her business is receiving.
She blends traditional jewellery-making techniques with cutting-edge technologies such as fibre laser cutting and powder coating.
Ellina joined University of Staffordshire in 2016 for a foundation year followed by a BA (Hons) in 3D Design (Jewellery) which she completed with First-Class Honours. She later returned to join the Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship, which supported the development of her business.
She is a strong advocate of the transformational power of education and says she owes much of her current success to the support she has received during her time at University of Staffordshire.
“I appreciate so much everything that the University has done for me,” she said. “I wouldn’t have done it without all of the people at the University. I never thought I’d be where I am today with my own business, but the University has helped me.
“University of Staffordshire played a critical role in laying the foundation for the growth of my business. Through access to mentors, equipment, entrepreneurial guidance and a strong creative network I was able to go from student to award-winning business owner in a few short years.
“The skills, resilience and confidence I gained during my academic journey continue to drive me forward as I scale my brand and explore new avenues for growth.”
Ellina Pollitt has entered the Alumni Business Person of the Year, Growth, Entrepreneur of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Katie Kozakiewicz
Entrepreneur of the Year nominee
Being diagnosed with a brain tumour was the catalyst for Katie Kozakiewicz setting up the business she had dreamt of running.
She is now trained in aesthetic medicine and runs Aesthetics by Katie from premises in Hartshill, Stoke-on-Trent.
“As a single mum, starting my journey in aesthetics was incredibly challenging both in terms of time management and finances,” said Katie. “However when my son turned 18 and I was diagnosed with a brain tumour I realised that there was no more time to waste.
“My son had chosen his own career path in accounting and that gave me the push I needed to pursue my passion for aesthetics.
“The journey hasn't been easy. There have been many obstacles and there still are but I am deeply committed to providing the highest quality service to my clients.
“I chose not to take shortcuts or fast-track courses because working on people’s faces and bodies is a huge responsibility. Instead I dedicated my first two years to rigorous studying and hands-on experience, shadowing my tutor, Monika Bonet at Promed Training - Medical Academy and Aesthetics Clinic.
“Her guidance and support have been invaluable, and even today I continue to expand my knowledge and skills to grow my business and offer the best possible care.”
Katie began her training in 2019 and in 2022 set up a permanent base within Vamp Beauty Salon.
She and her business have been nominated in the Small Business of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards by Tomasz Putynkowski.
Tomasz said: “Katie’s journey to establishing Aesthetics by Katie is truly inspiring. As a single mother she faced numerous challenges that made it difficult to pursue her dream of running her own business in aesthetic medicine.
“However, as her son grew older and more independent, Katie seized the opportunity to invest in her education, gain qualifications and develop the skills necessary to start her own business. Her determination and hard work have been instrumental in turning her dream into a reality.
“Katie’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of passion, determination and hard work. By overcoming personal and financial challenges she has created a successful business that not only fulfils her dreams but also helps others feel better about themselves.
“Her journey serves as an inspiration to other women, especially mothers facing similar challenges, to never give up on their dreams and to strive for success.
“Aesthetics by Katie is more than just a business; it is a source of empowerment and inspiration for the community. Katie’s dedication to her clients and her commitment to helping them feel confident and beautiful have made a positive impact on many lives.
“Her success story encourages others to believe in themselves and pursue their goals, regardless of the obstacles they may face.”
Katie added: “It’s nice to feel appreciated. This is not an easy business to succeed in. It’s not easy to build client trust but I know I have it because they always come back.”
Mark Pennington
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
University of Staffordshire alumnus Mark Pennington has taken EPX Technical Services from a two-person team to a staff of 28 and a projected £2.6 million turnover for 2025.
The company he co-founded, now based at Beaconside in Stafford, secured a place on the MSP 501 Winners List in 2024 which ranks it among the world’s top IT service providers.
Mark’s entrepreneurial journey began with a passion for technology and a drive to build a business that truly made a difference.
His focus on cybersecurity and AI-driven innovation has positioned EPX as a trusted IT partner for businesses across the UK and beyond.
Rather than maintaining the status quo, Mark has actively pursued expansion through strategic acquisitions. Over the past decade he has successfully integrated three companies, each acquisition carefully chosen to strengthen EPX’s service offerings and ensure sustainable growth.
Mark’s commitment to innovation is evident in his most recent achievement: the development and launch of Insights, an AI-driven tool designed to revolutionise IT support efficiency. Recognising that time saved on service tickets translates to measurable business impact, Mark championed the integration of AI to enhance automation across EPX’s operations.
Insights is more than just a company initiative, the tool has gained international traction with customers across the UK, US and Australia already adopting it to improve service delivery. With a projected expansion over the next 18 months, Insights is positioning EPX as a leader in AI-driven IT service optimisation.
Alongside being Managing Director of EPX Technical Services Mark has taken a leadership role in the wider MSP industry by establishing a non-executive working group. Through this initiative he provides business leaders with a framework to implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System model, helping fellow MSPs strengthen their operations and scale effectively. His commitment to industry-wide collaboration reflects his belief that success should be shared and that the growth of the MSP sector benefits all stakeholders.
Mark graduated from University of Staffordshire in 2006 with a BSc in Internet Technology, gaining the technical foundation and problem-solving skills that would later shape his career in IT services.
He said: “University of Staffordshire played a pivotal role in fostering my passion for technology and innovation, setting me on the path to co-founding EPX Technical Services.”
Mark has entered the Alumni Business Person of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Richard Evans
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
Richard Evans has grown Burslem-based Mincrete into a business with a £15 million annual turnover.
He has succeeded in business against the backdrop of personal struggles. 25 years ago he was in the grip of acute alcoholism but turned his life around after spending time in rehab. He has now been sober for 16 years and has even bought a financial stake in the clinic where he received his treatment.
Richard has been nominated as Entrepreneur of the Year in University of Staffordshire Business Awards by his proud daughter, Elizabeth Evans, who is University of Staffordshire Business Management alumna and now works at Mincrete.
Mincrete, which specialises in ready mixed concrete, has also been nominated as Business of the Year.
Elizabeth said: “The specific set of intellectual skills that he possesses, combined with personality traits of compassion, passion, premeditation and stoicism is the fundamental key to Mincrete's success and ability to weather uncertain and often cruel times.
“His rise from the ashes is an astonishing story that not only resonates with so many people but provides something that every person needs, hope.”
Richard’s catchphrase in ‘you’ve got to give it away to keep it’, which has seen him buying trolley loads of Christmas presents for families in need and giving up his free time to support people struggling with alcoholism or gambling.
Under Richard’s leadership the Mincrete turnover has grown exponentially. It has also recently gained British Standards Institution accreditation.
Richard’s business philosophy centres around sustainable and incremental growth, social responsibility and corporate social responsibility. This includes creating a low-carbon alternative concrete range called APOGEE to allow for lower carbon footprints across the supply chain.
Richard recently bought Nettlebank Memorials and is planning to expand further into the funerals and graveyard sector.
Elizabeth added: “Richard’s story is one of extraordinary transformation of a man who rebuilt his life from nothing, who went on to build a thriving business that contributes to the local economy and provides valuable services.
“He has achieved remarkable financial growth for Mincrete, attained industry recognition with BSI accreditation and expanded his vision to include other ventures that serve the community. He has done all of this while remaining grounded, compassionate and committed to giving back.
“I know he’s my dad but he really is an exceptional person. He just fills you with a lot of hope.”
Tomasz Putynkowski
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
As the director of a business that launched in 2023, accountant Tomasz Putynkowski has a start-up business of his own yet he still finds time to give his advice free of charge to support other start-ups.
Alongside running Fenton-based JMT Accountancy with two fellow directors he volunteers his time through University of Staffordshire’s Be-Inspired project to help aspiring entrepreneurs set up and grow their businesses.
He also helps students studying for the University’s Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship, is treasurer of Support Staffordshire, sits on the advisory board for Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce and helps various charitable causes free of charge.
“I am passionate about giving back to the community and supporting those in need,” said Tomasz. “I actively support a local assisted living CIC and the Adult Autistic Society charity, contributing both time and resources to help improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
“My charitable efforts reflect my belief in the importance of social responsibility and community support.
“I am proud to be part of the Be-Inspired program at University of Staffordshire, which helps new entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive. I advise and support aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing my knowledge and experience to help them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. My involvement underscores my commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders.”
JMT Accountancy’s team of six, which includes two apprentices, has around 115 clients including numerous start-ups and small businesses as well as larger and more established businesses.
“My parents started with a market stall and ended up with 10 shops and two warehouses so I’ve grown up around finance and growing small businesses,” said Tomasz. “I’m always thinking about how I can help start-ups to grow.”
Tomasz has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Bex Foster
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
Bex Foster spotted a gap in the market while working at a marketing agency so she left to set up her own business.
The Social Platform, based in Stafford, specialises in social media and copywriting for start-ups and small businesses who want the expertise of an agency but at a lower cost.
Bex, who has worked in the industry for more than 15 years, also offers workshops and one-to-one coaching to help businesses navigate the world of social media.
“Paying agency prices isn’t realistic for some businesses,” she said. “I want to make social media accessible for everyone. I’m giving people the same quality of work but for a smaller price tag.
“Some clients want me to write their social media content or to run their social media accounts. Others choose to have coaching which could include giving them the tools to write and run their own social media or to talk through their upcoming social media content.”
Bex started her business in February 2023 and now has clients based around the UK in industries including aviation security, retail and dog grooming.
She has her own podcast, That Creative Club, which she uses as a platform for connection, inspiration and innovation.
She added: “My USP is the fact that I really care about the businesses I work with. I really want to see them thrive by helping to make social media and marketing accessible to everyone.”
Bex Foster has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and has entered The Social Platform into the Start-up Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories.
Emma Cartlich
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
A former NHS Educator of the Year winner, Emma Cartlich now uses her teaching and training skills to run two pet businesses including founding and scaling a training academy.
Emma, from Weston Coyney, runs wedding dog chaperone service Precious Pets Weddings with her husband Adrian alongside Ultra Clean Canines, where she has created a one-of-a-kind training platform and works with colleges around the UK.
“I was a teacher and a trainer in colleges and in the NHS where I used to teach doctors and nurses how to use clinical hospital systems and would help GP surgeries to use new clinical IT systems,” said Emma. “I spent 14 years in the NHS and before that I worked in colleges and prisons.”
She says it was a natural progression to launch the businesses after her husband trained as a dog groomer.
She was initially still working full-time as Research and Development Training Lead at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, leaving her job in 2018 to work full-time on the businesses.
“We never anticipated Ultra Clean Canines becoming such a successful training academy and when we took Precious Pets Weddings to wedding shows we had people queueing around the corner to speak to us.
“I took a risk and left my job with the NHS to get our businesses off the ground. Then the pandemic hit and dog grooming businesses were shutting down, so I had the idea of running emmi®-pet seminars on Zoom and the rest is history.
“Adrian is like the dog whisperer and doesn’t even go on a laptop whereas I’m the entrepreneurial one with a background in IT.”
Emma added: “I get real job satisfaction from what I do. It really can feel like I’m making people’s dreams come true. We do our job because we have a genuine passion for what we do.”
Emma Cartlich has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Andrew Weston
Entrepreneur of the Year nominee
From leading personal training sessions and fitness classes to offering free drop-ins for children in his local community, Andrew Weston works with people of all ages and abilities.
The founder and owner of Guerrilla Training in Hartshill, Andrew was also a co-founder of non-profit social enterprise IN2Health and Wellbeing and leads much of its delivery across Stoke-on-Trent.
The University of Staffordshire alumni runs sessions in schools around the city as well as from his own business premises that he opened in 2013.
“I work with various types of people from people looking to try to lose weight to people with disabilities and people who have had accidents. I do one-to-one personal training, small group personal training, large classes for up to 25 people and work in the community.
“Every Wednesday afternoon I run a youth club for an hour for seven to 14-year-olds in the local community and in the school holidays I open up for holiday clubs. Children from the local community who receive free school meals can come for free activities for up to four hours a day, usually a few days each week.”
The 42-year-old, from Meir Park, has been working in the fitness industry since the age of 19. He studied for management qualifications with University of Staffordshire and says he always aspired to open his own gym.
Andrew has been nominated in the Entrepreneur of the Year and Alumni Business Person of the Year categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
He said: “It’s nice to be recognised for the work that I do. I just go to work every day and don’t seek any recognition. I do love helping people get fit and love working with people from different backgrounds. It’s a real passion of mine.”
Andrew was nominated by Tomasz Putynkowski from JMT Accountancy.
Tomasz said: “I am honoured to nominate Andrew Weston for the University of Staffordshire Business Awards. Andrew has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and dedication through his successful management of Guerrilla Training and IN2Health and Wellbeing.
“His commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of young people across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, along with his personal achievements, make him a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.”
Alistair Trippett
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
In October 2022, at the age of just 26, Alistair Trippett bought an estate and lettings agency that had gone into administration. Two years later he has transformed the fortunes of Heywoods Estate Agents and doubled the team from nine to 18 staff.
The Newcastle-under-Lyme based business, which was founded more than a century ago, is now thriving in an industry where many estate and lettings agencies have faced insolvency.
Heywoods’ lettings portfolio has grown by 33% in managed properties over two years, solidifying its position as a leading agency in the region. This growth has complemented its dominance in the ST5 sales market where it has nearly 15% of the market share compared to its nearest competitor’s 9% share.
The lettings team was presented with a Gold Award at the British Property Awards, a national accolade that celebrates outstanding customer service in the property sector.
The Heywoods team was also recognised with a Gold Award for Sales at the EA Masters and has been included in the Best Estate Agent Guide for 2025.
Alistair said: “In 2024, we were proud to help a total of 283 families and individuals in finding their perfect homes, marking our busiest year on record. This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to our clients and our ability to deliver results even in a competitive market.
“Despite operating in an industry fraught with challenges, our strategic vision, innovative practices and community-focused initiatives position us as a leading example of sustainable growth and excellence in the property sector. We remain committed to continuous improvement, client satisfaction and contributing positively to our community.”
New operating procedures have been introduced to streamline processes and to increase efficiency and client satisfaction.
Heywoods Maintenance has been launched to offer property care for homeowners and landlords. Led by Phil Harrison, who joined in a newly-formed maintenance operative role, this initiative ensures property issues are addressed swiftly.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the company’s ethos. In 2024 it donated £10,000 to various charitable causes including donating £25 to the Peter Pan Centre for every house completion and tenant move-in during December 2024 and February 2025.
Alistair Trippett has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year and Young Business Person of the Year categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards and Heywoods Estate Agents has been entered into the Growth Award category.
Deklan van de Laarschot
Entrepreneur of the Year entrant
Deklan van de Laarschot left school after his GCSEs and now, at the age of just 34, is the founder and CEO of two tech businesses with a multi-million-pound turnover.
He left his job to set up Next2IT in 2020, not expecting to be running a fledgling business from his bedroom during a pandemic.
By 2021/2022 the business’s turnover was £1.3 million, reached £2.1 million the following year and £3.5 million by 2023/2024.
The business quickly moved to premises in Cannock and now has offices at Stafford Technology Park where it has just taken over extra space to open a centre of excellence.
Alongside Next2IT Deklan has launched Next Level Software. Both businesses aim to transform the IT and software industries.
Born in London, Deklan moved to Stone at the age of 19 and still lives in mid-Staffordshire.
“I didn’t go to university,” he said. “I did my GCSEs then I left school and went into IT, working my way up to become technical director.
“I wanted to set my own business up, had the concept for that first business and stepped away from employment at the age of 29.
“I’d been putting things in place for a while and hadn’t realised that Covid was around the corner. I handed my notice in and three months later we went into lockdown.
“So I was unemployed in lockdown and trying to get my business to work. Within 12 months I’d stopped working from a bedroom and moved into offices in Cannock.”
The rapid expansion of the businesses has been fuelled by Deklan’s ability to identify market opportunities, build high-performing teams and deliver next-generation IT solutions that help businesses enhance security, efficiency and scalability.
He added: “Success is not only measured by revenue and growth but also by the ability to lead, inspire and create a culture of innovation.”
Deklan has entered the Entrepreneur of the Year category of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.