Today, we had the privilege of attending and sponsoring the 43rd Women of the Year Luncheon and Awards, held at the iconic Etihad Stadium in Manchester. As proud supporters of this extraordinary event, we joined over 400 guests in celebrating the stories and achievements of women who are truly making a difference in their fields and communities.
This year’s awards saw over 300 nominations, with 14 finalists shortlisted across three powerful categories:
- Business Woman of the Year
- Freeths Woman with Edge
- Emmeline Pankhurst Award: Woman of Achievement, sponsored by Male Allies UK
It was an honour to witness the outstanding winners take home these prestigious accolades – and to be in a room filled with such talent, resilience, and purpose.
Celebrating the Winners
Rachel Corp, CEO of ITN, one of the UK’s largest independent production companies, was awarded Business Woman of the Year. Overseeing more than 50 hours of television content weekly and a staggering 7 billion+ digital views annually, her impact on the media industry is profound. Judges praised not only her leadership at ITN but also her active role with organisations like Women in Journalism, Women for Women International, and the RSA BAFTA.
Neev Spencer, an award-winning broadcaster and host of Magic Radio’s weekday afternoon radio show, was recognised with the Freeths Woman with Edge award. Her influence in the TV and radio world is undeniable, but what truly stood out was her advocacy for women’s success, and her ongoing work with The British Asian Trust and other charities close to her heart.
The Emmeline Pankhurst Award for Woman of Achievement was awarded to the Women of the Post Office, a powerful moment in the afternoon. Their collective courage in standing up against one of the gravest miscarriages of justice in British history moved the room and reminded us all of the strength found in solidarity.
A Room Full of Change-Makers
The event was a vibrant celebration, not only of the winners but of every woman nominated. We were joined by other leading organisations including Aldermore Bank (headline sponsor) and Pertemps PLC. Writer and actress Sally Lindsay, who serves as the President of the Awards, welcomed guests and spoke with pride about Manchester as the “creative capital of the UK.”
Judging panels included influential figures from key sponsors and alumni from past years, including representatives from Aldermore Bank, Freeths, and the Strategi Solutions team.
As a company, supporting the Women of the Year Awards aligns deeply with our own values of inclusion, recognition, and progress.
From Our CEO
“Being part of the Women of the Year Awards is more than sponsorship, it’s a celebration of excellence, resilience and the relentless pursuit of change. These women are trailblazers, each with a story that reminds us why it’s vital to create platforms where female voices are heard, celebrated and amplified. We’re proud to support this event and the incredible women shaping the future.”
Rob Fisher, CEO at Strategi Solutions
Looking Ahead
At its heart, the Women of the Year Awards is about spotlighting real stories, stories that inspire action, shift perspectives, and open doors for the next generation. From hospitality to manufacturing, construction to media, the awards continue to champion women from all sectors and walks of life.
Past winners include Baroness Karren Brady, the late Dame Julie Kenny CBE, Dr Sharon Redrobe OBE, Fiona Allen, and Jenny Campbell, to name just a few.
We’re proud to stand alongside these remarkable women, their supporters, and all the nominees and winners who remind us that real change happens when we celebrate and elevate each other.
