BusinessCloud is launching the Northern Leaders 2026 list, honoring over 200 individuals improving the region. Entering its third year, the program spotlights inspirational figures from various sectors, including business, sport, and politics. This year’s lineup includes 93 fresh additions, demonstrating the publication’s aim to honor both famous names and lesser-known heroes. The total count stands at 208 after accounting for eight pairs listed together, a group that includes 85 women.
Eamonn Boylan, a former GMCA chief executive, is being honored posthumously following his passing earlier in the year, marking more than four decades of public service. OBI serves as the headline sponsor for this event, supported by the legal firm CG, GM Business Growth Hub, and the Rochdale Development Agency. All honorees will attend the awards ceremony at KPMG’s Manchester offices on November 19.
BusinessCloud executive editor Chris Maguire remarked: “We received a record number of nominations this year and the difficult task was cutting the list down to 200 spots. “There are 93 new entries to ensure the list feels distinct each year. “The central question we considered was whether the nominees have truly improved the North. “Certain names are clear choices, such as Sir Kevin Sinfield, for his fundraising efforts for MND charities. “One of the first things Andy Burnham did when he became prime minister was open No10 North, which has shifted some of the power and focus from Westminster to the North. That’s what we want.”
Northern Leaders 2026: The Honorees
1. Adam Waugh: The 63-year-old sailor and former stockbroker from Northumberland built his own boat and sailed solo around the world, raising £100,000 for the Ella Dawson Foundation.
2. Bill Holroyd CBE: A philanthropist who has been instrumental in the growth of OnSide Youth Zones, assisting in creating pathways for young people.
3. Clare Roberts OBE: Founder and CEO of Kids Planet, which has grown into the UK’s second-largest nursery provider.
4. Michael Carrick: The Manchester United manager whose foundation works to ensure children and teenagers feel secure and reach their potential.
5. Conor Flood: A property professional who has raised awareness and funds for brain tumour research following his own diagnosis at the age of 28.
6. Dave Thompson MBE: Has devoted his life to assisting disabled people after suffering a broken neck during an American football game in 1989.
Additional Leaders Making a Difference
7. Dr Fozia Saleem: An entrepreneur who has chosen to build her globally ambitious biotechnology business, Magnitude Biosciences, in the North East.
8. Gavin Howarth: Is steering the family business and foundation following the deaths of his parents, Helen and Andy Howarth, preserving the ethics they established.
Community and Business Innovators Recognized
9. Heather and Tom Staff: The siblings behind Manchester-based Street Group, a company that has expanded to employ 230 individuals.
10. James Batchelor MBE: Founder and CEO of Alertacall, who has dedicated his working life to using technology to help older people maintain their independence.
11. Karlie Thompson: An NHS worker who lost both legs after developing sepsis and was given just a five per cent chance of survival.
12. Shaun Wane: The former rugby league coach, now in demand as a keynote speaker and business consultant, who speaks with brutal honesty about his difficult childhood.
