Meet the Judges
Andrew Baggott
Managing Partner at SBA Founders and Orgnisors at CN Chartered Accountants and CN Group
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Andrew Baggott, Managing Partner CN Group
Andrew acquired the firm in 2004. Prior to this, he gained many years’ experience at one of the top four UK firms and a large corporate finance led practice.
He specialises in providing strategic business planning advice to business owners and entrepreneurs, helping them achieve their ambitions, drive sustainable growth, and maximise the value of their businesses.
Andrew also leads CN Group’s Corporate Finance team, overseeing a wide range of transactions and supporting clients through acquisitions, disposals, mergers, management buyouts, fundraising, and other strategic business initiatives.
Gareth Jones
Partner and Head of Virtual Finance Office Services at CN Chartered Accountants
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Gareth Jones, Partner and Head of Virtual Finance Office Services at CNCA
Gareth Jones heads up the Virtual Finance Office team at CN and joined the business as a graduate after completing his degree in Finance Management. Since then, he has completed his professional accountancy qualification with the firm and progressed through the ranks to become a Director.
In his role, Gareth leads a team while managing a diverse portfolio of clients, with a particular focus on owner-managed businesses and start-ups. He works closely with business owners to provide strategic financial support, helping them navigate challenges, drive growth, and achieve their long-term objectives.
Christian Mancier
Partner, Gorvins Solicitors
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Christian Mancier, Partner at Gorvins Solicitors
Christian joined Gorvins as a trainee solicitor and qualified in 2003. Now an Equity Partner, he specialises in high-value corporate transactions, including acquisitions, disposals, management buy-outs, private equity investments, and joint ventures, primarily for owner-managed businesses and SMEs.
He also heads Gorvins’ Family Business Team, advising on succession planning and long-term business strategy, and is highly active within the Greater Manchester business community, having held a number of senior leadership and non-executive roles.
Michael Smoult
Partner & Head of Wills, Trusts & Probate at Gorvins Solicitors
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Michael Smoult, Partner & Head of Wills, Trusts & Probate
Oliver Robinson
Managing Director, Beer Division, Robinsons Brewery
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Oliver Robinson, Managing Director, Robinson’s Brewery
Oliver Robinson is the Joint Managing Director of Robinsons Brewery, one of Stockport’s oldest and most respected family businesses. Representing the sixth generation of his family to steer the company, Oliver joined the business in 1998 and stepped into his role as Joint MD in 2012 where he now leads the beer division of the business, overseeing the brewing and production centre as well as the people and marketing functions within the business.
Beyond the brewery, Oliver contributes to the brewing industry through various industry panels and is an active member of Family Business UK. He is a passionate advocate for the brewery’s heartland, championing Stockport’s ongoing economic investment and celebrating the rapid growth of both its new startups and established local enterprises.
Nick Wroe
Managing Director, Platform81 Ltd
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Nick Wroe, Managing Director
Nick founded Platform81 in 2008, turning a lifelong passion for marketing into a successful digital agency. With almost two decades of experience, he has worked with businesses of all sizes, helping them achieve their goals through effective websites, branding, and digital marketing strategies.
As Founder and Sales Director, Nick works closely with clients to understand their objectives and identify opportunities for growth. He leads the sales team, develops strong business relationships and referral networks, and helps shape the strategic direction of client projects.
Focused on delivering practical, results-driven solutions, Nick is committed to ensuring every project creates tangible value and lasting impact for Platform81’s clients.
Richard Mortimer
Head of Economy, Works & Skills, SMBC
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Richard Mortimer, Head of Economy, Work and Skills, Stockport Council
Richard is a senior leader in economic development, employment and skills, with a strong track record of translating strategy into delivery that drives inclusive growth and measurable impact.
Currently Head of Economy, Work and Skills at Stockport Council, leading a complex portfolio spanning labour market development, skills systems and business growth. This includes leading the production and implementation of Stockport’s Economic Plan and Skills Plan, aligning investment, policy and delivery to support sustainable economic growth and improved outcomes for residents and employers.