The week after the Greater Manchester Good Employment Awards has been a bit of a whirlwind — in the best possible way.

Winning Leader of the Year was unexpected. I only found out I’d even been nominated when the shortlist was announced. My team had quietly put me forward without saying a word — and that gesture, in all honesty, meant more than the award itself.

Like a lot of people, I’ve always struggled a bit with social anxiety. Big rooms, applause, photos — it’s not where I feel most comfortable. But on the night, surrounded by people who care deeply about doing the right thing in the workplace, it felt different. There was something genuinely hopeful in that room.

And then, the next morning, the phone started ringing.

We were approached by several companies — all wanting to talk about services, all with one thing in common: they were looking to partner with businesses that walk the walk on employment standards. Not just policy on paper, but actual practice. Fair pay. Secure hours. Voice. Inclusion. Purpose. Culture. Things that shouldn’t be revolutionary — but still are, too often.

This is where the value of good employment becomes clear. It’s not just a moral position (although that should be enough). It’s a business case. We’re seeing first-hand how ethical employment drives performance, attracts talent, builds loyalty, and opens doors. And in sectors like security and cleaning — where exploitation is far too common — it helps clients sleep at night, knowing they’re not complicit.

This wasn’t our first recognition either. Last year, we were proud to win Employer of the Year and Best for Employee Engagement at the same awards. That matters — not because of trophies, but because it validates the path we’ve chosen. A path built on principles that sometimes felt like the harder route.

And yet… here we are. Growing. Retaining staff. Delivering for clients. Being noticed — not because we shouted loudest, but because we kept showing up, doing the right thing, and letting the results speak.

We’re not perfect. Far from it. But we’re consistent. We listen. We learn. And above all, we believe in the idea that business can be a force for good — without compromising on performance or ambition.

So yes, we’ll take a moment to celebrate this award. But the real work continues. Because being a good employer isn’t a title — it’s a daily choice.

And every day, we’ll keep choosing it.