Five respected leaders from across business, culture and the community have been announced as the judging panel for this year’s Beacon Awards, bringing a wealth of experience to the search for Lichfield District's outstanding businesses and individuals.
We organise the Beacon Awards celebrate the businesses, organisations and individuals making an exceptional contribution to the district, recognising achievements in business growth, innovation, customer experience, community impact and more.
This year’s judging panel brings together senior figures from some of the district’s most recognisable organisations, spanning logistics, manufacturing, arts and culture, tourism and the voluntary sector.
Rob Gittins, Managing Director of Palletways, brings extensive experience of leading a major logistics business based in Fradley. Palletways was also recognised at last year’s Beacon Awards, giving Rob first-hand experience of what the awards mean to local businesses.
He is joined by Matt Clay, Director of Development & Partnerships at Lichfield Garrick, who brings expertise in building partnerships, supporting the arts and strengthening the role of cultural organisations in the community. The Garrick was also among the winners at the 2025 awards.
Representing the manufacturing sector is Terri-Anne Cooper, Sales & Marketing Director at Roxane UK, who brings commercial experience in sales, marketing and business development.
Maggi Huckfield, founder and CEO of Liberty Jamboree, joins the panel following her recognition as Community Hero at the 2025 Beacon Awards. Having spent more than a decade championing inclusion and creating opportunities for children, young people and adults with additional needs, Maggi brings a valuable perspective on community impact.
Completing the panel is Simon Warburton, Chief Operating Officer at Lichfield Cathedral, who brings experience of leadership within one of the district's most significant heritage and visitor attractions, alongside an understanding of the importance of culture, tourism and partnerships to the local economy.
Joining the five external judges is Councillor Richard Holland, Lichfield District Council's Cabinet Member for High Street and Economic Development, bringing a local authority perspective and insight into the council's work to support businesses and economic growth across the district.
Councillor Richard Holland, Lichfield District Council's Cabinet Member for High Street & Economic Development, said:
"We’re delighted to welcome such an impressive group of people to judge this year’s Beacon Awards. Between them, they bring a wealth of experience from some of our district's most successful and respected organisations.
"With nominations closing this Friday, I’d encourage businesses of all sizes to put themselves forward. Whether you’re a growing independent business, an established employer or someone making a real difference in your community, we want to hear your story."
This year's awards will recognise achievement across ten categories, celebrating businesses of all sizes and sectors, alongside outstanding young professionals and community heroes.
Nominations close on Friday 16 October 2026, with the judging panel reviewing entries ahead of the announcement of finalists.
Winners will be celebrated at the Beacon Awards ceremony on Thursday 3 December 2026 at the Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens.
To explore the award categories and submit a nomination, visit www.beaconawards.co.uk.