Sophie Jackson Judges 2026 Family Business Award
Sophie Jackson, Chief Operating Officer at WRS, has taken part in the judging process for the Gerald Edelman Family Business of the Year Award at the 2026 Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards.
WRS Chief Operating Officer Sophie Jackson has taken part in judging one of the leading categories at the 2026 Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards.
From award winner to awards judge
Sophie’s invitation follows a successful year for WRS at the national business awards. WRS was named Business Enabler of the Year at the 2025 Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards.
In 2026, Sophie returned to the awards in a new role, helping to judge one of its leading categories and hearing directly from the shortlisted family businesses.
Why the Family Business of the Year category matters to WRS
The category has particular significance for Sophie and WRS. WRS has been a family-owned technology business since it was founded in 2003, with Sophie playing a key role in the company’s continued growth and development.
During the judging process, the finalists shared the stories, people and values behind their businesses.
Sophie Jackson reflects on judging the award
Sophie said:
“As someone proud to be part of a family business myself, it was a real privilege to hear their stories and learn about the passion, resilience and people behind their success.
“We had some brilliant discussions as a judging panel, although choosing between so many outstanding businesses certainly wasn’t easy!
“It was an absolute honour to be invited to judge such a prestigious award. Best of luck to all the finalists. I can’t wait to celebrate with you at the awards.”
The 2026 judging panel and finalists
Sophie was joined on the judging panel by Adam Walsh, Helen Tonks MBE, Daniel Hildebrand and Fiona Graham.
The Gerald Edelman Family Business of the Year finalists are:
- Champions UK plc
- Kendamil, part of Kendal Nutricare
- Nyton House
- RCP Parking
- Resolve Care
- Sandwich Sandwich
- Tulleys
- Rock Fall
- Arthur C Towner
- Little Foxes
Celebrating UK family businesses
Sophie’s move from award winner to judge represents another proud moment for WRS and reflects the company’s growing involvement with the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards.
The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in November 2026, where Sophie will join the finalists to celebrate leading businesses from across the UK.
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