Recognise a stand-out senior leader of an employee owned business

A newly launched category for 2026, the 'EO Business Leader of the Year' award celebrates an exceptional senior leader within an employee owned business who’s demonstrated outstanding commitment to – and leadership of – employee ownership.

This award recognises individuals who embody EO principles through their empowering leadership approach, who models an EO mindset, and ensures decisions are made for the long-term stewardship of the business. It’s open to

• Leaders who’ve taken on senior responsibility post-transition
• Founders still working within the business
• Leaders who helped drive the transition / development of EO forward within the business

A worthy winner will be able to demonstrate how their leadership has strengthened EO governance, culture, and performance, empowering employee owners, enabling sustainable success, and ensuring EO is lived throughout the business.

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What Judges are Looking For

Judges are looking for clear examples of how leaders have embedded EO values through strategy, governance, people leadership, and culture, alongside measurable impacts on performance, engagement, sustainability, or reputation.

Plus, detailed and robust evidence that demonstrates how the nominee’s leadership has positively shaped the employee owned business.