The wait to discover the finalists of the Eastern Daily Press Business Awards 2023 is almost over, with the four top businesses in each of the categories due to be announced on November 1.
But before we get to that point, there’s a lot of work going on behind the scenes to ensure the right businesses make the final four in each category, and deciding which one of them gets to walk up on the stage and collect the award at the celebration event at the Norfolk Showground, Norwich on Thursday, November 23.
The nominations go through two rounds of judging. The initial application forms allow the judges to assess entries against a five-point criteria for each category. They are then shortlisted to a handful of businesses that make it through to the second round, when they have a meeting with the judges.
There are two judges per category: one is a representative from the category sponsor and the other is either a well-respected member of the local business community or a previous award winner.
These expert judges are an essential part of the judging process; the awards couldn’t take place without them. Here, some of the judges explain why they are so keen to be part of the EDP Business Awards 2023:
Saul Humphrey, managing partner, Saul D Humphrey LLP
Judging the Director of the Year category
Judging the business awards is an honour. As a judge, we get the opportunity to cross-examine the ‘crème de la crème’ in their field.
Separating the ‘excellent’ from the ‘outstanding’ nominations is quite a challenge!
It’s a delight to witness first-hand the best business achievements in the region and celebrate them at what is always a fantastic ceremony.
Gemma Crane, founder/director, Mindset-HR Ltd
Judging the Employer of the Year category
Supporting the EDP Business Awards is close to my heart as it is Norfolk-based.
There are so many incredible businesses and ambitious, creative, entrepreneurial people in Norfolk; we are like a little golden nugget on the map. It’s a great community and network to be part of.
There is so much collaborative and charitable work that takes place. We pull together when the going gets tough and support each other.
Sasha Bainbridge, regional partnerships director, Lovell Partnerships Ltd
Judging the Positive Impact in the Community category
These awards celebrate success, innovation and ambition and are the best way to showcase Norfolk businesses to the wider public.
By recognising their successes through the EDP Business Awards, we can encourage the growth and prosperity of our businesses as well as inspire people starting out on their business careers.
Judging the awards is a great honour, and it is so interesting to have the opportunity to meet Norfolk businesses and the people behind them who are at the top of their game, to discover what they have achieved and how.
It really does underline the sheer diversity and the exceptional abilities of the businesses of all sizes in our community.
Toni Storer, director, Anglian Demolition and Asbestos Ltd
Judging the Large Business of the Year category
I am very proud of my roots, and coming from Norfolk I am honoured to be given the opportunity to be a judge.
I love seeing individuals and businesses getting the recognition they deserve and achieving their goals.
Norfolk has many successful businesses that have impacted the local and global economy, from finance, manufacturing and technology to construction and recycling.
These companies have not only developed and promoted their own brands but Norfolk as a whole, sending a clear signal to leaders and entrepreneurs everywhere that this county is the place to be.
Tom Burdett, director of finance and strategic operations, Jarrolds
Judging the Medium Business of the Year category
The EDP Business Awards provide a great opportunity to collectively celebrate everything that is great about business in Norfolk.
There is a massive amount for the Norfolk business community to be proud of, but it isn’t always great at shouting about it.
Recognising the best of the businesses in the community and giving them a platform for future success is essential to ensure Norfolk as a whole continues to thrive.
Laura Hood, business development manager, Anglia Capital Group
Judging the Small Business of the Year category
I’m excited to be part of the EDP Business Awards because I know what a wealth of talent and fantastic businesses there are in Norfolk.
I’m always impressed by how the Norfolk business community comes together to support each other and local causes.
Everyone who has entered the awards deserves to be recognised for the hard work, job creation and passion they bring to our region.
Tickets are now on sale for the EDP Business Awards ceremony on Thursday, November 23. Please visit edpbusinessawards.co.uk
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