EF News
An inspirational business leader whose vision and determination have left a lasting mark on the North East has been recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Entrepreneurial Awards.
Keith Miller, founder of Miller UK, received the accolade at this year’s ceremony which took place on Thursday 18th September at Hilton Newcastle Gateshead and is organised by the Entrepreneurs’ Forum.
Supported by House Seven, the Lifetime Achievement Award is the most prestigious honour of the evening, celebrating individuals who have made a substantial and enduring impact on business and the region over an extended period.
Keith founded Miller UK in 1978 at just 21, starting out as a one-man welding service before transforming it into a world-class engineering business. His pioneering quick-coupler invention transformed how the world’s builders work, raising safety standards and productivity across the industry.
Through economic ups and downs, Keith’s leadership has protected hundreds of skilled jobs, created many apprenticeships and kept the company proudly routed in the North East, whilst expanding to serve customers in over 50 countries. Keith was introduced to the stage by his brother Gary and sister Jacqui, who acknowledged that the award not only recognises what he has built, but also the way he has done it with vision, determination and loyalty to his team and family.
On his win, Keith said: "I am honoured to have received this award which is a celebration of not just me but everyone at Miller who has helped make it possible. We are proud to be rooted in the North East and after 47 years are still supporting the construction industry in over 50 countries worldwide.”
In addition to the Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2025 ceremony celebrated entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
Lee Hartley of Sunderland-based Fairstone Group was named Entrepreneur of the Year which was supported by Ward Hadaway.
Lee founded Fairstone in 2008 and has led its growth from start-up to one of the UK’s largest Chartered Financial Planning firms. Through bold vision, strategic innovation and a pioneering acquisition model, he’s scaled the business sustainably while maintaining a strong people-first culture.
Supported by SHINE (North East Combined Authority), the Impact Award was presented to Nicola Wood of the Wonderful Wig Company based in Newcastle.
After being diagnosed with cancer at age 36, Nicola launched the Wonderful Wig Company which to date has supported over 5,000 people suffering medical hair loss. Her company is the leading supplier of high-quality wigs and headwear in the UK and is an approved supplier to 20 different hospitals across the North of England.
Alex and Ross Longton of Newcastle-based Tiba Tempeh were crowned winners of the One to Watch title, supported by UMi.
Alex and Ross founded Tiba Tempeh in 2019 with a mission to create a healthier, more sustainable world with their naturally delicious and nutritious plant-based food products. Tiba Tempeh has become the UK’s fastest-growing meat-free brand and is poised for even greater expansion after securing a £1m boost from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, managed by Maven.
Supported by RTC North, the Caroline Theobald Award recognises an entrepreneur who is championing entrepreneurship across the region and was presented to Ammar Mirza CBE.
Ammar has supported over 15,000 SMEs through his pioneering initiatives, like ABConnexions, SME Centre for Excellence and #InclusionByDefault, which are shaping global trade corridors, levelling up regions and unlocking opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs and communities.
Elaine Stroud, CEO of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “This year’s Entrepreneurial Awards once again highlight the incredible talent and resilience within the North East business community. From seasoned leaders who have shaped our region over decades, to the next generation making their mark, our winners represent the very best of entrepreneurial spirit.
“On behalf of the Forum, I would like to congratulate all of this year’s finalists and winners.”
Hosted by Jo Darby, the 2025 Entrepreneurial Awards were supported by House Seven, Ward Hadaway, SHINE by North East Combined Authority, UMi, RTC North and Maven Capital Partners.
