The BIBAs wouldn’t be what it is without our amazing volunteer judges. Experienced business leaders from across the county, they put applicants through their paces to find the best-of-the-best.
The BIBAs judges typically look for businesses that can demonstrate excellence in a range of areas, including innovation, growth, sustainability, and customer service. They want to unearth the businesses that stand out from their competitors and have a clear vision for the future.
Judges will also be assessing the quality of the application itself, looking for well-presented and concise entries that clearly communicate the business’s strengths and achievements.
Additionally, the judges will be considering the impact that businesses have had on the local community and wider economy, as well as their commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices.
It’s important for applicants to showcase their unique qualities and strengths, and provide evidence to support their claims
Emily Leyland is one of two sisters that founded and run recruitment firm Fresh Perspective Resourcing.
She’s judging the Family Business of the Year award and explained: “I absolutely cannot wait to meet people who are huge advocates of successful family businesses, just like us!
“For me ‘Family Business’ isn’t just about the generations that came before but about what’s happening today and how working alongside your family positively impacts your business and its future.
“Confidence, passion and honesty are some of the key things I’m looking for and I hope this starts with the application!”
Helen McVey is the chief executive of Pendleside Hospice and will be judging the Community Business of the Year award.
She said: “As a judge it is important to be able to establish what the vision and values of the business are, how they have developed their vision and what they are doing to ensure they meet their objectives, particularly how they adapt and innovate along the way as they identify challenges and opportunities.”