Guest Judges
Chris Forbes
Co-founder of The Cheeky Panda along with his partner Julie Chen. Cheeky Panda is a Fast Track 100 company, Ranked 13th in the UKs top 100 start-ups the 8th most recognisable sustainable brand in the UK. Chris is passionate about delivering change for good and has been a public speaker with regular features in press and radio helping share the journey and inspire others to become environmental entrepreneurs. Read more
Andy Lopata
Andy Lopata is an internationally recognised expert on building, nurturing, and leveraging professional relationships, lauded by the Financial Times as ‘one of Europe’s leading business networking strategists’ and by Forbes.com as ‘a true master of networking’. With over 25 years of experience, Andy has become a globally sought-after speaker, author, and mentor, distilling his extensive insights into six influential books.
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Gus Bhandal
Gus is a social media specialist, a highly experienced marketing strategist, and founder of the digital marketing agency 'The M Guru'. Gus has been in marketing since the late 90s and has seen a LOT of changes in the world of marketing, such as multi-channel advertising campaigns, the advent of social media and, in recent times, the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. Read more
Judging Panel
Leigh Frost
Leigh Frost is the MD of Truesilver and the Walk-In Web Design Shop, a strategic marketing and design agency that specialises in helping ambitious businesses clarify their message, strengthen their brand and attract consistent, high-quality clients.
James Brodie
James Brodie is the founder of Buddha Connect Limited. He is a passionate advocate for authentic, relationship-based networking.
Emma Smith
Emma Smith is the founder of The Horsey HR Lady, a strategic HR consultancy focused on empowering businesses through data-driven decision-making and bespoke people strategies.
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Ian Kirsop
Judge for the outstanding venue award 2025
Ian is the founder of DAM Risk Assessments, which specialises in dental, medical, and aesthetic risk assessments.
Mike Land
A down-to-earth, professional Creative Director with 30+ years of experience providing exceptional design for brands like Texaco, Tie Rack, and DeVere Hotels.
Katrina Sargent
Katrina Sargent, with over 35 years in B2B sales, is best known as the Co-Founder of Business Buzz. Since its launch in 2012, she has guided Business Buzz to become a leading network for informal, pay-as-you-go business events across the UK.
Simon George
Simon George is the highly regarded Co-Founder of Business Buzz, a leading UK-wide network renowned for its informal and accessible business networking events.
Sponsors
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