Winners’ Summaries 2025
Entrepreneur of the Year
Aleksandr Konotopskyi – Ajax Systems
Aleksandr Konotopskyi is the founder of Ajax Systems, Europe’s largest security system manufacturer, protecting over 3.5 million users worldwide. Recognised as Entrepreneur of the Year in 2021, he joined the Ukrainian Business Council and the Diia. City United Association in 2024 to support Ukrainian entrepreneurship and tech development.
Judges commended Aleksandr Konotopskyi for his outstanding leadership in driving Ajax Systems to global prominence in the security technology sector. His commitment to research and development has fuelled continuous product advancements, demonstrating exceptional foresight and innovation. Aleksandr’s ability to navigate challenging conditions in Ajax’s home market while diversifying and expanding the product portfolio highlights his remarkable vision and strategic acumen. He is a standout leader whose achievements have set a new standard in the industry.
Market Disruptor of the Year
Guildhawk
Guildhawk is a British female-led AI tech company, featured in the DBTs Britain is Great Series, and a global exporter leading on AI innovation. Honoured with an MBE and Queens’ Award for International Trade, Guildhawk pioneered the first secure alternative to Google Translate, creating skilled jobs in the UK, backed by Sheffield Hallam University and Innovate UK.
Judges praised Guildhawk for its innovative disruption of the global translation industry through secure translation software and multilingual digital human avatar videos. The company’s ISO:27001 certification and ongoing investment in AI technologies highlight its dedication to both security and cutting-edge innovation. Guildhawk’s ability to break down language barriers and improve operational efficiency for global firms enhances its scalability and competitive edge. Moreover, its focus on ethical AI technologies to make health and safety information accessible demonstrates a commitment to both social responsibility and technological excellence. Guildhawk’s consistent development and approach to overcoming language challenges in the workplace and beyond sets a high standard in the industry.
Entrepreneurial Business of the Year
First Response Group
First Response Group (FRG), founded in 2007 by Edgar Chibaka and Jamal Tahlil, is a leading provider of security, risk, and facilities management solutions with 2,500 employees and a forecasted £75m turnover in 2024. The company focuses on innovation, employee well-being and diversity, delivering exceptional outcomes through cutting-edge technology and a bespoke approach.
Judges acknowledged First Response Group for its exceptional performance, highlighting clear evidence of achievements across all areas, particularly in social impact and sustainability. The company’s strong financial growth, coupled with its unwavering commitment to creating positive social change, made it a standout contender in this category. First Response Group’s ability to integrate financial success with meaningful contributions to sustainability demonstrates a holistic approach to business excellence.
Family-Owned Business of the Year
Connelly Security Systems(CSS)
Founded in 1986 by Jim, Pat and Paul Connelly, CSS is a pioneering Scottish family business in the fire and security sector. With numerous industry approvals, awards for customer service and a commitment to training, the company is a trusted leader in security solutions and sustainability, recognised as Scottish Family Business of the Year 2021 and the recipient of the BSIA’s Chairman’s Award in 2023.
Established by three brothers, Connelly Security Systems Limited (CSS) embodies strong family values that have shaped its approach to business, emphasising integrity, hard work, and community support. The submission demonstrated CSS’s commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices, with tangible examples such as the Ecologi program and charitable donations. The judges also highlighted the compelling family legacy at the heart of the business, with clear evidence of how each family member contributes to the company’s success. This submission effectively captured the essence of family values in business, making it a strong contender in this category.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Ina Jovicic – eNOugh
Ina Jovicic is the founder of eNOugh, a hardware start-up focused on personal safety, and a Sigma Squared Fellow featured in Forbes 2024. She also teaches at UCL and is a recognised speaker on resilience, innovation and social impact in technology.
Judges were impressed by Ina’s innovative approach to addressing the deeply rooted issue of misogynistic harassment, demonstrating remarkable technological entrepreneurship. Her mission-driven stance, aimed at ensuring women and girls can live free from harassment, is both impactful and visionary. Ina’s ability to turn personal trauma into a force for positive change exemplifies resilience and dedication. The clear social impact potential of her work, combined with her innovative execution, makes her a standout in this category.
Lifetime Achievement
Iain McCallister
Iain McCallister, CEO of MAN Commercial Protection Ltd, co-founded the company in 1993. Under his leadership, it now employs 1,500 people across the UK, offering comprehensive security services. Celebrating 30 successful years, Iain emphasises customer service and staff development.. Judges have praised Iain’s entrepreneurial leadership and positive impact on the security sector. As sole owner, his hands-on management and “personal touch” have ensured high client retention and business growth. Iain’s “can-do attitude” and inspiring leadership drive the company’s vision, yielding a 22% revenue increase and 400 new jobs. His active participation in industry events, and in security association work demonstrates his dedication to advancing industry standards. With a focus on market adaptability and technological innovations like AI, Iain continues to propel the company and the industry forward.