DOMINIC STEVENS – HEAD OF DESTINATION CHESTERFIELD

Dom is no stranger to the businesses of Chesterfield, you all know him as Head of Destination Chesterfield. Dom has a huge amount of experience in place marketing across the UK and has worked tirelessly for the town of Chesterfield for 15 years to secure inward investment and boost growth opportunities. His work with Chesterfield has created significant opportunities for the town which continues to thrive, with Dom pushing tirelessly for commercial success.

“I’m delighted to be part of the judging panel for these new awards, which provide a fresh opportunity to recognise the breadth of talent, innovation, and ambition we have here in Chesterfield. Our business community continues to achieve remarkable things, and I’m looking forward to learning more about the fantastic organisations contributing to the town’s growth and success throughout the judging process.”

SAMANTHA DEAKIN – HEAD OF ENTERPRISE AT UNIVERSITY OF DERBY

Samantha is Head of Enterprise at the University of Derby, where she leads venture creation and entrepreneurship, supporting founders to develop innovative ideas and build sustainable ventures.

She founded her first company in 2009 and has spent 16 years building regional entrepreneurial communities, helping ambitious people turn problems into products, secure investment, and build companies with potential to scale.

“I’m endlessly curious about the people behind businesses and the ideas driving them forward. I love discovering ambitious companies in unexpected places and celebrating the determination, creativity and courage it takes to build something new from the ground up.”

PROFESSOR PETER DEWHURST – CHAIR AT BUSINESS PEAK DISTRICT

Peter began his career whilst still at university in Manchester, when he launched an import, wholesale & retail business. He moved into the higher education sector in 1987, taking on various senior leadership roles, including latterly as the Director of Strategic Projects at the University of Derby. A role he retired from in 2023.

Peter has served as a Board member of various organisations, with his current responsibilities including membership on the Boards of Chesterfield College and Rural Action Derbyshire. In addition, Peter is the Chair of Business Peak District, which he joined as a founding member back in 2010.

“I’ve long been an impassioned advocate of the town, having first played a role in establishing the University of Derby’s campus on Sheffield Road. Since that time I have worked with various groups, including the Chesterfield Champions, to support Chesterfield’s business community to grow and innovate, and so I see my involvement with the Business Awards as a logical step in supporting these ambitions.”

ANNE BATTY – FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR AT PAPERCLIP

Anne is the founder of the hugely successful Paperclip Telephone Answering Company, and has been Managing Director for 18 years. Anne has built a reputation for delivering exceptional customer communication solutions to businesses across a wide range of industries.

With a strong background in client services and operations, Anne is passionate about helping organisations enhance their customer experience through professional, reliable support. Under her leadership, Paperclip has grown steadily, earning trust for its personal approach and high standards.

Anne is committed to supporting local business communities and is proud to contribute her expertise as a judge at this year’s awards, recognising excellence, innovation, and dedication.

“I am delighted to have been invited to be one of the judges for the Chesterfield Business Awards, as it is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the resilience and achievements of such a vibrant local business community.”

MARVIN COOKE OBE DL – REGIONAL CHAIR AT KING’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE

Marvin is Professor of Enterprise at the University of Derby and former Executive Vice President of Manufacturing at Toyota Motor Europe where he led manufacturing operations across Europe, including 8 Production facilities in 6 countries, Engineering and Supply Chain.

Over a 33 year career with Toyota, he held senior leadership roles in the UK, Belgium, France and the Czech Republic, including Managing Director of Toyota Manufacturing UK Ltd. Marvin began his career as an engineering apprentice at Pirelli and remains passionate about developing future talent through education, apprenticeships and mentoring.

“I was happy to do it because I’m passionate about supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders, and I’m keen to help recognise ambitious ideas with real potential to create impact.”