Those who have seized every opportunity to establish their own business will be recognised in the Young Entrepreneur of the Year category at the Suffolk Business Awards 2022. Judge Peter Wilson from Cory Brothers explains what he thinks businesses and individuals can gain from entering.

Can you tell us a bit about your business journey?

I’ve gone from the lowest rung to the top in 23 years with Cory Brothers. One company, one business and always learning. I’ve treated everyone the same and it’s stood me in great stead.

Why were you keen to get involved in the Business Awards?

To seek recognition for the business and my team, who I believe should have wider acknowledgment, and to help other good people and businesses advance; to help propel the worthy further into the light.

What do you bring to the judging process?

A rounded sense of balance, some qualified insights and, essentially, the qualities of the ‘critical friend’.

Have you ever been judged for an award yourself?

Yes. I was named the Business Person of the Year at last year’s awards and I was judged in a separate category too - Employer of the Year.

Will you use that experience when judging this award?

Absolutely! It was quite intense but strangely cathartic. That level of introspection is a good and worthy test for any person and any business.

What inspires you in business?

The tragic loss of my dear sister, niece and nephew just over two years ago serves as a primary driving force of motivation - I try to emulate the good that my sister bought to a challenging world in many different ways.

Do you have any anecdotes of moments that changed your business strategy?

There are many! The most recent being a global pandemic (that is still with us). There was no playbook, so we just did our best, looked after each other and got on with it. Our strategy changed overnight, as did most of our working practices.

What advice would you give to a business that’s considering entering?

Do it and don’t hesitate. If you enter, then you’ve already gained. You may not win but you’ll learn and, hopefully, improve and come back stronger to try again. Awards help you find light, a new audience, a wider market and are likely to help your business.

Award criteria

This award is for entrepreneurs aged 30 or under who have demonstrated the traits to achieve a level of business success that belies their age.

Judges will be looking for entrepreneurs that have seized the opportunity to establish their own business and are passionate for progress.

This entrepreneur will be a beacon of inspiration to businesspeople irrespective of age and industry.

Enter the Young Entrepreneur of the Year category at the Suffolk Business Awards 2022, by visiting www.suffolkbusinessawards.co.uk