YTKO is delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for three major categories at the International Brilliance Awards™ 2026, taking place on 22 January 2026 in London.
These prestigious global awards recognise organisations and leaders who demonstrate exceptional innovation, strategic excellence, and outstanding impact.
Being shortlisted across three highly competitive categories reflects YTKO’s resilience, ambition, and exceptional performance over the past year, as well as the significant contribution we continue to make to businesses and communities across the UK.
UK Business of the Year – YTKO
The UK Business of the Year Award celebrates organisations that demonstrate outstanding performance and leadership within the UK market. Judges look for:
- Strong and sustained business growth
- Robust financial performance
- Strategic innovation
- Commitment to sustainable practices
- Meaningful community and economic impact
YTKO’s nomination recognises our ability to thrive during turbulent political and economic conditions while delivering high-quality programmes nationwide. Over the past year, we have strengthened our organisational structure, expanded regional delivery, modernised our systems, and continued to drive inclusive economic growth.
This shortlist highlights YTKO as a benchmark for excellence — a business that not only performs strongly, but contributes positively to the UK economy and local communities.
Agency/Consultancy of the Year – YTKO
The Agency/Consultancy of the Year Award recognises firms that deliver exceptional consulting services, strategic expertise, and measurable value to their clients. Judges evaluate:
- Depth of consultancy knowledge
- Strategic and innovative solutions
- Client outcomes and measurable impact
- Contribution to business improvement and growth
YTKO’s nomination celebrates our record of delivering high-impact programmes across the UK. In the last 12 months alone, we have:
- Delivered over 20 live and completed programmes
- Supported thousands of entrepreneurs, SMEs, and VCSE organisations
- Achieved measurable, evidence-based impact in every region
- Consistently exceeded client and funder expectations
Across our history, YTKO has created 17,000+ jobs, supported 40,000+ businesses, raised £100m+ in finance, and delivered a proven £10.70 ROI for every £1 of public funding — marking us as one of the UK’s most effective and trusted consultancies.
CEO of the Year – Lee Hughes
The CEO of the Year Award honours exceptional leadership, vision, and impact. Judges will assess:
- Strategic achievements over the past three years
- Organisational growth and financial performance
- Brand strength and recognition
- Commitment to innovation and ethical practice
- Employee engagement and cultural development
YTKO CEO Lee Hughes has been shortlisted for his transformative leadership during a period of significant organisational change. Over the last year, Lee has:
- Stabilised YTKO at a critical moment
- Guided its evolution into an employee-owned, data-driven, purpose-led organisation
- Strengthened its national reputation and operational performance
- Inspired a culture of transparency, collaboration, and shared ownership
His leadership has resulted in a more resilient, united, and future-focused organisation — one that continues to deliver excellence for clients, funders, partners, and communities.
A Message from Lee Hughes, CEO of YTKO
“We are incredibly proud to be shortlisted for three categories at the International Brilliance Awards™. These nominations reflect the dedication and expertise of our teams across the UK, who consistently deliver high-quality support that changes lives, strengthens communities, and drives economic growth.
I am especially humbled to be shortlisted for CEO of the Year — an achievement that would not be possible without the commitment, passion, and resilience of our colleagues. Together, we have built a stronger, more forward-looking organisation, and these nominations affirm just how far we have come.”
Looking Ahead to January 2026
The winners will be announced at the International Brilliance Awards™ Ceremony on 22 January 2026 in London.
We are honoured to stand alongside so many outstanding organisations and leaders and look forward to celebrating the achievements of the wider business community.