Yorkshire Post Business Awards: Judges revealed for 2026 event
The judges have been announced for the 2026 edition of The Yorkshire Post Business Awards.
Amongst the judges are CEOs and directors of firms across the region, with industries spanning from the arts to real estate.
Nominations for 2026 are now open across 17 different categories, with a lifetime achievement award also due to be announced on the night.
The closing date for entries, which are free to make, is September 18 and can be submitted via www.yorkshirebusinessexcellence.co.uk.
The Yorkshire Post Business Awards Dinner is then set to be held on November 11 at New Dock Hall, in Leeds, marking the 21st time the awards have been held. Last year’s event was attended by over 300 people.
Speaking on the awards earlier this year, Chris Burn, head of business and features for The Yorkshire Post, said: “Our business awards night is always a great occasion. Last year was particularly special but we are aiming to top it in 2026.”
Amongst the newly announced judges is Sharon Watson, CEO and principal of the Northern School of Contemporary Dance.
Ms Watson was previously the seventh Artistic director of Phoenix Dance Theatre, and is a Trustee of Leeds 2023.
Experienced commercial real estate professional, Jeff Pearey (BSc MRICS), is also amongst the judges, as well as Emma Pearmaine, managing director of Ridley and Hall Solicitors.
James Ashton, outgoing chief executive of the Quoted Companies Alliance, Tariq Shah OBE, CEO of Vigo Group and entrepreneur and business leader Nikki Guest also take slots on the panel.
Dame Linda Pollard DBE DL LLD, director and consultant at L&M Strategic Insight Ltd, and Jonathan Jones, non-executive director and board advisory services, also make up the final two names on the judging panel.