Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is delighted to announce the finalists for the Employee of the Year category at this year’s Business Awards, proudly sponsored by Ornua. This prestigious award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, and impact within their organisations and communities.
The winner will be revealed at the Gala Awards Dinner on 10th July 2025, taking place at Uttoxeter Racecourse.
The four outstanding finalists are:
Rob Heath – IronMarket
As Director of Wealth at IronMarket, Rob Heath has played a transformational role in driving business growth, mentoring colleagues, and championing financial literacy. Under his strategic leadership, the firm has seen a 50% increase in average assets under management. His outreach work with schools and universities to promote financial education also impressed judges, positioning him as a strong candidate for both his business and community work.
Trudy Traynor – JCA Consulting
Trudy Traynor, Business Manager at JCA Consulting, has quickly risen through the ranks, redefining her role with remarkable versatility. From overseeing operations and marketing to mentoring colleagues and implementing new systems, Trudy has made a significant impact across the business. Her leadership, innovation, and commitment to team development are vital to JCA’s continued national success.
Dr Robert Crookes – Lucideon
A trailblazer in materials science, Dr Robert Crookes leads Lucideon’s work in advanced ceramics, helping the company achieve global recognition. His innovations in ultra-high temperature ceramics and 3D printing have helped to secure new revenue streams and attracted over £18 million in investment. Beyond his technical achievements, Robert is a dedicated mentor and educator, helping his colleagues by sharing knowledge across teams.
Sophie Dusting – RAB Consultants
Senior Resilience Advisor, Sophie Dusting, has become a national leader in business continuity, recently earning the Business Continuity Institute’s 2024 Consultant of the Year award. At RAB Consultants, her client-focused approach has driven contract wins, enhanced internal processes, and established the company as a key supplier to the Environment Agency. Sophie also helps to mentor staff members and create a collaborative culture within the team.
