Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has revealed the finalists for the Learning, Skills and Development Award at the 2026 Business Awards.
Sponsored by Keele University, the award celebrates individuals who have shown a dedication to their skills, knowledge and professional capability, making a meaningful impact within a business or learning environment by applying newly developed skills to real-world challenges.
Now in its 11th year, the Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards is the largest business awards programme in the region. Winners will be crowned at a gala awards ceremony at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Thursday 9 July 2026.
The four finalists are:
Andy Gear, Bri-Stor Systems – Learning and Development Group Leader at Bri-Stor Systems’ Centre of Excellence in Hixon, Andy has delivered over 1,000 training hours in the past year, onboarded 121 new starters and supports 26 apprentices. A banksman training module he introduced has contributed to zero accidents since its launch. Find out more, here.
Tara Mason, Eden Holistic Pet Foods – Having completed her HR Level 3 programme at distinction level and been nominated as apprentice of the year by her provider, Tara has overhauled onboarding, return to work documentation and meeting governance entirely on her own initiative, bringing a consistency to HR practice at Eden Pet Foods that has strengthened the business at every level. Find out more, here.
Adam Cann, Capula – Graduating with a First Class BEng (Hons) from the University of Staffordshire, Adam was promoted to Senior Hardware Engineer within a year, and now mentors four apprentices simultaneously alongside his work on national critical infrastructure projects. His oversight of electrical safety contributed to a zero-incident year. Find out more, here.
Slava Marynychenko, Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group – Studying Level 3 NVQ Professional Cookery at NSCG Stafford College, Slava has completed a stage at Michelin-starred Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, competed in national culinary competitions, and been named a finalist in the Nestlé Toque d’Or. His head chef and mentor has said he will be one of the best chefs of his generation. Find out more, here.
To find out more about the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, visit staffordshirechambers.co.uk/awards.
