The 2024 Judges are...

Head Judge

Charlotte’s role since departing from the Uni of Wolverhampton Cyber Quarter has been a dream move and although she

works throughout the UK, she has her feet firmly rooted in Herefordshire where her husband runs his own business

Having been a huge supporter of Herefordshire Businesses in the past, her passion for seeing success celebrated locally has not faded and she still supports start ups and entrepreneurs within her role at CyNam where Business Development is a key factor

As well as being responsible for leading the charge on Skills - Charlotte sits on the UKC3 - Cyber Cluster Skills Working Group and the UK Cyber Security Council’s Outreach and Diversity group advising and sharing on good practice for business and education

At present one of her passions and also priorities is working with high schools based in the South West region as delivery lead for the NCSC’s Schools’ CyberFirst Programme, where Charlotte’s relationships with businesses based throughout the UK have successfully enabled the delivery of exciting and interactive focussed Cyber programmes for students from Ages 11 through to University

Covering the whole of the South West not one day is ever the same whether it be supporting start up’s, entrepreneurs, SMEs or Primes, or delivering programmes with the National Cyber Security Centre the aim is to nurture and develop the next generation of Cyber Security specialists

Charlotte has organised many face to face events within her role supporting the largest Cyber Cluster outside of London working closely with Govt Departments such as DSIT, the Growth Hubs, and the National Cyber Security Centre.

Charlotte Smith- Skills Growth Lead for CyNam

Claire Sambrook, Finance Director at allpay Limited

Claire Finance Director at allpay Ltd. With a distinguished 17-year career in finance, Claire brings her expertise and passion to the Herefordshire Means Business Awards 2024.

Based in Herefordshire, Claire's professional journey began in a farm-to-fork poultry business, where she honed her financial acumen before transitioning from 'poultry to payments'.

Throughout her career, Claire has excelled in leading and motivating finance teams amidst challenging organisational changes and fast-paced business environments. Her deep understanding of business operations and the pivotal role of finance extends beyond the numbers, showcasing her comprehensive approach to financial leadership.

Claire is eager to evaluate this year’s entries and witness the exceptional talent and skills that Herefordshire businesses have to offer. Her commitment to supporting local enterprises and fostering growth within the county makes her an invaluable addition to the judging panel.

Alastair Gibbs- Owner, TPG Disable Aids Ltd

Alastair has experience working in a variety of Sales and Account Management related roles. This experience has allowed him to develop and apply his skills and knowledge across many different fields. He is a committed individual who has the ability to work independently, however he thrives in a team environment as well. With his ability to adapt and be flexible it allows him to succeed in various environments. His strengths lie in relationship building, creative problem solving and attention to detail. Alastair was the winner of the Business Leader of the year in Herefordshire Business Awards 2022.

And now meet our host ...

Matt Teale – Award-winning presenter with ITV News.

Matt Teale is an experienced broadcaster with thousands of hours of live television under his belt. An award-winning presenter and programme maker, Matt has fronted national news for ITN and sports coverage for Sky News. He is currently a main presenter of ITV News Central in the Midlands and also fronts British Forces News on Forces TV. In a career spanning twenty years, his assignments have taken him to Afghanistan, South Africa, The United States, The Falklands, China and across Europe. Matt was brought up in north Herefordshire and has been the organiser of the Shobdon Food Festival for over thirteen years. The not for profit event has raised over a hundred thousand pounds for local charities and good causes and helped pump many thousands more into the Herefordshire economy.