Next Generation Awards 2025: Shortlist Announced
The Next Generation Awards 2025, proudly sponsored by Silentnight Contract, celebrate the people, skills, and excellence that define the commercial interiors industry. Recognising the crucial role of interior furnishing suppliers in shaping outstanding commercial spaces, these awards provide an exclusive platform for talent within the sector.
This year, Commercial Interiors UK introduced four new award categories exclusively for Commercial Interiors UK members, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to nurturing talent and innovation. Unlike any other awards in the commercial sector, the Next Generation Awards are uniquely positioned to shine a spotlight on individuals who are driving progress and excellence in commercial interior supplier businesses.
Through these awards, we aim to inspire emerging talent to see our industry for what it truly is—a thriving, exciting, and rewarding career opportunity that offers creativity, innovation, and long-term professional growth!
Sean Holt, Managing Director of Commercial Interiors UK, said:
“These talented individuals represent the future of our thriving commercial interiors community. By celebrating their achievements, we not only recognise their dedication and expertise but also inspire the next generation to see this industry as an exciting and rewarding career path. Their success today will have a lasting impact on the future of our community, ensuring it continues to grow, evolve, and lead the way in commercial interiors.”
High-Caliber Nominations and Expert Judging Panel
The overwhelming number of nominations received this year reflects the wealth of talent and dedication within the industry. To ensure a rigorous and independent evaluation process, a distinguished panel of independent judges, all leaders in their respective fields, was assembled.
Following the announcement of the judges, the panel was confirmed as:
- Cora Kemp, Director at Informare
- John Woodruffe, Managing Director at Turn Key
- Amanda Moore, Managing Director at Achieve+Partners Limited
- Christine Samuelian, Director at Friends & Co
- Ian Pateman, University of Greenwich
- Jo Gibson, Vice Chair & Board Director at Commercial Interiors UK
Speaking about the judging process, John Woodruffe, Managing Director at Turn Key, expressed his admiration for the nominees:
“The privilege of being asked to judge the Next Generation Awards was enhanced by the opportunity to review all of the high-caliber applications. As a passionate supporter of UK manufacturing, the strength of the nominees helped to identify why the UK is so strong in this highly competitive market of commercial interiors. From leadership, design, apprenticeship, and production management, there was real proof that this is an area where we compete at the highest level across the world.”
Fellow judge Jo Gibson also praised the significance of these awards, stating:
“These are the unsung heroes of our industry today and the movers and shakers of the future, and we need to make sure they know how great they are.”
Awards Ceremony & Event Details
The winners of the Next Generation Awards 2025 will be announced at a celebratory awards night on Thursday, 24th April 2025, at Halle St Peters, 40 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 6BF. The event will take place from 19:00 to 23:00, offering an unmissable evening of celebration, fine dining, dancing, and networking with industry leaders. Tickets are available HERE.
The judges are delighted to announce the following shortlisted nominees for each category:
Rising Apprentice
Awarded to an apprentice who has demonstrated exceptional promise and dedication in their field, going above and beyond in their role.
Adil Zahidov, Sanipex Group
Ben Pickard, Moon
Joe Ferguson, Silentnight Contract
Rowan Topen, Edmund Bell
Sean Moss, Amtico Flooring
Senior Leader
For individuals with up to 2 years of senior leadership experience, showcasing a notable leadership project that exemplifies successful management and innovation.
Ashley Garside, Hypnos Contract Beds
Hayley Hodgson, Silentnight Contract
Helen Owen, Humanscale
Matt Hall, Balsan
Steven Dale, Hill Cross Furniture
Outstanding Marketeer
Recognises a marketing individual with up to 2 years experience in their role, who has been instrumental in supporting the launch of an innovative new product, demonstrating creativity and impactful results.
Federica Rodeschi, Sanipex Group
Helen Owen, Humanscale
Martin Snelson, Silentnight Contract
Nikki Fordham, Moon
Rose Campbell, Newmor Wallcoverings
Production Leader
For a department leader with up to 2 years of experience in their role, who has led a significant project demonstrating leadership skills and reaching targets.
Ashley Garside, Hypnos Contract Beds
Ben Muirhead, Hill Cross Furniture
Michael White, Amtico Flooring
Robbie Williams, Newmor Wallcoverings
Will Pelling, Andy Thornton Ltd