The biggest winner on the night was Paxman, winning the Manufacturer of the Year award – a title awarded to the most outstanding company amongst all the category winners.
The firm, a Huddersfield-based manufacturer of scalp cooling systems, used to reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss received recognition in the Innovation Award. Judges were impressed with different business models that Paxman employed for different international markets, according to local contexts and highly regulated environment.
The judging panel said “This innovation displayed huge impact in terms of social and health benefits. It was multi-dimensional from finance, product development and service delivery.”
Judges were also won over by Tobias Cowan, aged 21, an engineering apprentice at HepcoMotion, a Tiverton based manufacturer of linear motion systems and automation components. The accolade came after he had battled his way through regional heats to make it through to the national finals. Tobias’ passion, hard work and attention to detail, along with his ambitions for a teaching role within the sector were the deciding factors for the judging panel.
Joining Tobias on the podium was Heather Johnson, a business procurement apprentice at BAE Systems, who was crowned Business Apprentice of the Year. She was named the winner after impressing judges with her bold approach as she looked to integrate real-life experience and skills into the work place.
Winners were selected by a panel of judges drawn from business leaders, industry experts and academics and was up against tough competition from a range of dynamic businesses, small and large, from across the UK.
Richard Paxman, managing director at Paxman, said: “To be recognised as a leading manufacturer across the UK is fantastic. I’m thrilled with both the innovation and manufacturer of the year awards as everyone within the business has contributed. To be able to provide our product across the globe really pleases me as I know what we do makes a huge difference to people in particularly tough times. We’re all delighted to have won.”
Tobias Cowan, apprentice at HepcoMotion, said: “This is a massive honour – I can’t believe I’ve won. It’s such a wonderful way to crown what has been a fantastic year of my apprenticeship. Being an apprentice has given me the best start to my career, I’ve developed so much and winning this tops it all off. I’m absolutely thrilled to win”.
Heather Johnson, business procurement apprentice at BAE Systems, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have won this award and to have been crowned national winner. It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised for doing something I genuinely enjoy and is setting me up for my future.”
Other award winners announced on the night were:
Engineering Apprentice: Tobias Cowan, HepcoMotion
Business Apprentice: Heather Johnson, BAE Systems
Leadership: Peter Tack, Lander Automotive Ltd
Developing Future Talent: AESSEAL
Health and Safety: Advanced Insulation
Sustainability: Eurocell plc
Business Growth and Strategy: Paxman
Innovation: Surface Measurement Systems Ltd
