Business

Why Chesterfield works: A thriving hub for business, talent and growth 

Chesterfield is an attractive place to start, grow and invest. With its strategic location, strong talent pipeline, collaborative business culture and proactive support infrastructure, our town is proving that size is no barrier to ambition.

The recent Destination Chesterfield Round Table discussion, conducted in collaboration with the Derbyshire Times, brought together several Chesterfield Champions to discuss the strengths of being located in Chesterfield.

They came up with five compelling reasons.

1. Location, location, location

Ask any local business leader what makes Chesterfield work, and the answer is often the same: location.
“We’re slap bang in the middle of everything,” said Gareth Dillon of Killingley. “We do business in Sheffield, Derby, York and Leeds, but we wouldn’t dream of relocating. Chesterfield gives us access to major cities without the cost or congestion.”

Alberto Naso of Geeks Headquarters agrees: “We host national events and tournaments, and Chesterfield’s central position is perfect. People travel from Scotland and London to attend, and they stay, eat, and explore the town while they’re here.”

Cars driving on road with crooked Spire in the background

2. A loyal, skilled workforce

In Chesterfield, our town’s work ethic is a point of pride.

“Our business couldn’t have survived without the old-fashioned working-class philosophy,” said Gareth Dillon. “We don’t struggle to find people who know what graft is. That backbone of loyalty and hard work is still here.”

Apprenticeships are a key part of the talent pipeline. Luke Catt of SMH Group highlighted the role of Chesterfield College: “All our apprentices come through the college. We’ve trained people in accountancy, legal services, mortgage advice and more.”

Richard Sherwood of Roy Peters Estates shared a personal success story: “Our apprentice George just passed his Level 3 with distinctions. He’s smart, punctual, polite, the kind of person you trust with a million-pound house. That’s the quality we find here.”

Roy Peters and George

3. Collaboration and Community

Chesterfield’s business culture is built on relationships. From local suppliers to professional services, there’s a strong commitment to keeping business local.

“I want to work with smaller entities,” said Gareth Dillon. “If I need a designer, I want Mr Smith of Smiths Design in my office, not a faceless national firm. Chesterfield gives us that.”

Luke Catt added, “It’s easy to lose that face-to-face connection in today’s digital world. Through Destination Chesterfield and local events, we keep those relationships alive. It’s our duty as businesses to support each other.”

Large audience looking at slide that says 'growing our businesss' at the celebrate chesterfield 2024 conference whilst panel with Adam Doyle, Josh Marsh, Mike Isherwood and Cllr Tricia Gilby

4. Support that makes a difference

Behind Chesterfield’s business success is a robust support infrastructure. From startup grants to skills development, our town offers more than most.

Peter Lawrence of East Midlands Chamber praised the town’s free skills brokerage service: “It’s a huge asset. Businesses get help with recruitment, training, and succession planning, from apprenticeships to management development.”
He also highlighted Chesterfield’s proactive approach to funding: “Compared to similar towns, Chesterfield offers significantly more support. I’ve seen £10,000 growth grants here versus £2,000 elsewhere. That commitment to business growth is real.”

Gillian Scotford of Accessible Derbyshire echoed the sentiment: “Business support here is sensible and personal. Adrian Williams from Chesterfield Borough Council’s Innovation Support Project helped me think about where I’m going and what I want. That kind of guidance is invaluable.”

adrian williamson innovation support

5. Affordability and opportunity

Chesterfield offers the best of both worlds: access to major markets and a lower cost base.

“Our overheads are significantly less than if we were based elsewhere,” said Gareth Dillon. “That gives us a competitive edge, and it’s why we stay.”

Our town’s regeneration projects, including the canal corridor and town centre developments, are creating new opportunities for investment and growth.

“There’s a lot of positivity here,” said Peter Lawrence. “From international trade to local startups, Chesterfield is on a strong trajectory. The future is bright.”

Artist impression of the Arc industrial development at Markham Vale

Get the support you need to invest and grow your business in Chesterfield

Chesterfield isn’t just a place to do business, it’s a place to build a future. With its skilled workforce, collaborative spirit and strategic location, it offers everything a company needs to succeed.

Whether you’re a startup looking for support, an established firm seeking growth, or an investor exploring new opportunities, Chesterfield is ready to welcome you.

Find business support and advice: chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support

Explore commercial property opportunities: chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

Chesterfield hotel’s survey reveals what delegates really want from business events

Casa Hotel in Chesterfield has marked its 15th anniversary and the arrival of its 370,000th guest with a national survey of 1,500 professionals, offering valuable insights into what delegates truly value at corporate events.

Delegates want great food, meaningful networking, and hassle-free logistics. They’re turned off by jargon, long travel times, and packed schedules.

Networking and team building were rated the top benefit by 36% of respondents, followed by food and venue quality (27%). Travel and logistics were the biggest frustrations, with 27% citing long journeys and parking issues as their primary concerns.

Nearly one in five said corporate jargon was a major turn-off.

The survey also highlighted five key trends shaping business events in 2025: networking remains the top draw, food is a dealbreaker, wellbeing is increasingly important, jargon is out, and convenience is non-negotiable.

Casa Hotel’s facilities reflect many of these preferences. With purpose-built meeting rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to Chesterfield station and the M1, the hotel continues to support the town’s reputation as a business events destination. Its Cocina restaurant serves locally sourced food from Walton Lodge Farm, and its events team works closely with organisers to deliver tailored experiences.

Founder Steve Perez said: “When I couldn’t find a premium hotel in the Midlands that met my business needs, I decided to build one. Fifteen years later, this survey shows that the fundamentals haven’t changed; people still want good food, comfort, and convenience. But they also want a human touch: fewer buzzwords, better logistics, and events that feel energising rather than draining.”

These insights align with Chesterfield’s growing profile as a location for business events, conferences and corporate hospitality. From heritage venues to modern facilities, the town offers a diverse range of settings for professional gatherings.  For more on upcoming events and training, visit Chesterfield Business Events.

Casa Hotel is part of the Chesterfield Champions.  The network plays a vital role in promoting the town’s strengths and supporting collaboration across sectors. With over 200 organisations involved, the network brings together businesses, charities, education providers and public sector partners who are passionate about Chesterfield’s future. Champions help share success stories, attract investment, and showcase the town as a great place to live, work, visit and do business.  This is supported by a business event programme including regular events, round tables and forums.

To find out more or become a Champion, visit Chesterfield Champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

New Oak Estates recognised in best estate agent guide 2025

New Oak Estates has been identified as one of the top estate agents in the UK and features in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025

The Best Estate Agent Guide was created to help sellers and landlords find the top agents in their area. Each year, the Guide is compiled following a rigorous assessment which analyses more than 11,300 agents against criteria which matter most to homeowners, including property marketing, customer service, and results.

This year, New Oak Estates was among the winners, taking home a Gold Award

“We are delighted to have been included in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025.” Paul Flitter, New Oak Estates Director, said. “This industry-wide assessment rewards the agents who meet the very highest standards, and we are thrilled to have been recognised within the Guide as one of the best in the UK for the second year running!

Chesterfield continues to be recognised as a great place to live.  Recently named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, the historic Derbyshire market town is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Chesterfield has also been recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal.  Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.  “If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home.”

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Property and Construction

Business awards success for Chesterfield Champions

Chesterfield’s business community is proving its strength this summer, with a series of business award wins and shortlists placing local firms in the spotlight.

Mortgage 1st, Roy Peters Estates, and CMP Legal, all Chesterfield Champions, have received major recognition for their innovation, leadership, and community impact.

Together, their successes showcase the talent and ambition fuelling the town’s economy.

Mortgage 1st – Industry leadership and community impact

Mortgage 1st, a Chesterfield-based brokerage, is celebrating an outstanding summer, earning national titles and local recognition.

In June, the firm was crowned Mortgage Broker of the Year (11–50 advisers) at the Financial Reporter Broker’s Choice Awards, winning for the third consecutive year.

The following month, Managing Director Jon Stones was named Business Leader of the Year at the prestigious British Mortgage Awards, praised for his people-first culture and ambitious leadership. Regarded as one of the industry’s most respected events, the awards are often called ‘the Oscars of the mortgage world’.

That same month, Mortgage 1st also received the Business Community Award at the Bolsover Place Programme anniversary event, recognising its inspiring work with schools and young people.

Adding to the celebrations, three team members are finalists in the Women’s Recognition Awards this October:

  • Lisa Stones, Operations Director – Women in the Mortgage Industry
  • Hayley Port, Mortgage & Protection Adviser – Protection Adviser of the Year
  • Nicola Hardy, Senior Specialist Adviser – Specialist Lending Adviser of the Year

Judges praised Jon’s leadership, stating: “A really close category of exceptional leaders, but Jon stood out with a business performance that demonstrated growth and diversification, a culture that focuses on people before results, and an ambition and commitment to his firm and market that was really impressive.”

“It’s been another fantastic year so far for our business. Jon & I are extremely proud of what we continue to achieve alongside our talented team,” Operations Director Lisa Stones commented.

Mortgage 1st Business awards

Roy Peters Estates – Award-winning standards

Roy Peters Estates is also celebrating both individual and company success.

After dedicated study, apprentice George completed his Level 3 in Housing and Property Management with Distinction. He also gained his Apprenticeship and Membership of the Association of Residential Letting Agents (Propertymark).

George will be presented with his certificates by Founder and Managing Partner Roy Cutt. The presentation will take place in the company’s garden.

The garden was created by the directors to recognise the team’s efforts in achieving the British Property Award. The firm has once again been named Best Letting Agency in Chesterfield at the British Property Awards. This marks its second year running and fourth time overall.

Judged through mystery shopping, the award highlights the consistently high standards delivered by the team.

Roy Peters Estates has also joined the Propertymark Company Advantage programme, further underlining its commitment to industry-leading standards.

“Roy, Emma, and Richard, Directors of Roy Peters Estates, are delighted to welcome George as a full member of our team following his great results and industry qualifications, and also wish to recognise the hard work of every member of our small team in ensuring we retained the Best Letting Agency in Chesterfield Award for the second year running.”

Roy Peters and George

CMP Legal – National recognition in the legal sector

CMP Legal has been shortlisted for six awards across the Yorkshire Legal Awards and the East Midlands Chamber Enterprising Women Awards.

Co-founder and solicitor Anna Cattee is a finalist for Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year. She was recognised for leading £140 million worth of corporate transactions in just 12 months. A record rivaling some of the region’s largest law firms. She is also one of the few Notary Publics in the region and a mother to three young children.

“Over that time, I’ve gone from being an employed junior lawyer to a salaried partner and now co-founder of a successful law firm,” Anna said. “These award nominations are wonderful recognition for everyone at CMP Legal. Without teamwork, we could not have achieved what we have in less than five years.”

CMP Legal is also a finalist in three further categories at the Yorkshire Legal Awards:

Trainee of the Year (Harrison Easley), Employment Law, and Corporate & Commercial.

Harrison’s nomination celebrates his innovative work introducing AI into the firm’s practice management system.

The firm is also shortlisted in the Enterprising Women Awards for Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year. Winners will be announced on 26 September 2025.

These nominations follow national recognition earlier this year. CMP Legal was listed in the Legal 500 for Corporate and Commercial. An exceptional achievement for its first submission.
The firm also won Niche Law Firm of the Year and Legal and Dispute Resolution Team of the Year at the Sheffield & District Law Society Awards.

Anna CMP Legal

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

DBCP apprenticeship programme grows future talent

A former teaching assistant from Sheffield has taken her first steps towards a new career after joining DBCP as part of the company’s successful apprenticeship programme.

Shannon Edwards-Owen, 23, is starting her role as a Level 2 Business Administration Apprentice with the Chesterfield-based provider of building control services.

The former Parkside School student previously worked in education. She completed a foundation degree in Working with Young People and Families at Sheffield Hallam University. However, she decided it was time for a change and began looking for opportunities to develop her skills in a business setting.

“The apprenticeship with DBCP offers me the chance to build a career in a business environment, which is something I have become increasingly curious about,” Shannon said. “You make career choices at 16 which don’t always meet the needs of the adult you become.”

As part of her 18-month apprenticeship, Shannon will spend one day a week at Chesterfield College. She will spend the rest of her time gaining valuable workplace experience with DBCP’s busy Business Administration team, based at Dunston.

“We were impressed with Shannon’s CV. Beyond her qualifications, she’s shown an exceptional work ethic across multiple sectors since leaving school.” Said David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager. “We can see that she has what it takes to balance work and training. She’s precisely the kind of talent we’re proud to nurture at DBCP.”

Previously in her career, Shannon has worked in education, retail, and hospitality since she was 16 years old. She is no stranger to learning new processes.

Following on, Shannon said: “I could tell immediately that DBCP had a positive, engaging team and a history of supporting career-entry apprentices. The interview was a great experience. I was really encouraged to know how well other apprentices had done and to see first-hand the roles they now have within the business. I’m excited to start a new chapter in my career with DBCP.”

DBCP has built a strong reputation for supporting and investing in apprentices. Several of its team members began their careers through the same scheme.

Apprentice Building Control Surveyor Charlotte Gladwin won the title of LABC Newcomer of the Year in 2024. She has already gained recognition for her achievements. Charlotte is now in the running for Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year. The Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025 will present the award.

Additionally, Harvey Ellis, another DBCP apprentice, is also a finalist competing for Higher Apprentice of the Year. Adding to the celebrations, DBCP has made the shortlist for SME Employer of the Year.

Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards will reveal the winners on Thursday 2 October.

To read more on our successful champions nominated at the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025, please click here.

For expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team at www.dbcp.co.uk or call 0333 880 2000.

To find out more about apprenticeships and current vacancies visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

EyeSiteView Ltd launches following years of growth

One of Chesterfield’s most innovative digital businesses has marked a major milestone with the launch of EyeSiteView Ltd. The company specialises in property marketing using immersive 3D technology to help housebuilders sell new homes off-plan.

Previously, EyeSiteView operated for several years as a division within Oasis Studio. Now, it has become a standalone company with its own identity and strategic direction.

Tony Buck and Paul Deakin co-founded the business. Since its inception in 2016, they have led the EyeSiteView brand.

“This has been years in the making,” said Tony Buck, director of EyeSiteView.” To see the company grow from an idea into a trusted partner for housebuilders across the UK, and now a fully independent business, is something I’m incredibly proud of. We’ve built a brilliant team here in Chesterfield, and I’m excited for what’s next.”

“We’ve always believed that buying a home should be an exciting, confident experience – even off-plan. Our digital tools make that possible. This new chapter gives us even more focus to serve our clients, support our team, and help shape the future of property sales.”

Working with developers across the country, EyeSiteView delivers interactive digital platforms that make it easier for buyers to explore and personalise homes. Buyers can even secure their chosen property before a single brick is laid.

Staying true to its vision, the company aims to transform how new homes are marketed and sold through intuitive, data-driven technology.

EyeSiteView continues to operate from its base at Tapton Innovation Centre in Chesterfield. Flying the flag for digital innovation within the town’s growing property and construction sector.

Eyesite view Property marketing specialist.

EyeSiteView Ltd proudly joins the Chesterfield Champions network. This group of local businesses and organisations works together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. To learn more or become a Champion, visit Chesterfield Champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Property and Construction

Chesterfield talent shines at regional apprenticeship awards

Six organisations from Chesterfield have been named finalists in the 2025 Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards, underlining the town’s ongoing commitment to developing future talent.

The nominees cover sectors ranging from healthcare and construction to education and digital industries. This reflects the diversity of apprenticeships that support sustainable business growth in Chesterfield.

One of the individuals recognised for her outstanding contribution to apprenticeship mentoring is Rachel Griffiths, Office Manager at Dalton Roofing. Her dedication to supporting young talent has earned her a place as a finalist in the Mentor of the Year category.

Rachel said: “I am totally overwhelmed to be shortlisted. Supporting and helping others is one of the most rewarding areas of my job, so to be recognised for this is amazing.

“Having apprentices in our business is extremely important to us. It keeps the younger generation and talent coming through.”

Juniper Training has also been recognised for its long-standing commitment to apprenticeships. With over four decades of experience delivering high-quality programmes, the organisation continues to play a vital role in preparing young people for the world of work.

Sian Frater, Marketing Manager at Juniper Training, said: “Being recognised for our work is a huge achievement for the whole Juniper Training team.”

Julie Richards, Principal at the Chesterfield College Group, says, “We are delighted to be nominated across two categories, which is a testament to the ongoing hard work and dedication from our staff in serving the training needs for businesses across the region. Over the past year, both our Chesterfield and Derby campuses have supported an increasing number of employers across a wide range of industries, in either recruiting apprentices for the first time or growing their apprentice numbers as they recognise the value and impact they have in their business.”
 
 

Ceremony to recognise finalists of 2025 Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards

The awards, hosted by National World Events, celebrate the best apprentices, mentors and employers across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Winners will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday, 2nd October at the Village Hotel in Nottingham.

Chesterfield’s strong representation this year reflects the town’s ongoing investment in skills development. Initiatives such as the Chesterfield Skills Action Plan and the Chesterfield Champions network support this. These efforts are helping to create life-changing opportunities for young people while strengthening the local economy.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Vice Chair of Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “Apprenticeships are a powerful way for businesses to grow their teams and develop future leaders. It’s fantastic to see Chesterfield so well represented at these awards. A clear sign that the town’s investment in skills is paying off.

“We wish all the finalists the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating their achievements in October.”

Local finalists

The local people and organisations recognised in the 2025 Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards include:

 

Mentor of the Year

Rachel Griffiths, Dalton Roofing Ltd

 

Apprentice Ambassador of the Year

Philip Dalton, Dalton Roofing Ltd

Rhys Robinson, Chesterfield College Group

 

Health and Public Service Apprentice of the Year

Charlotte Gladwin, DBCP (Derbyshire Building Control Partnership)

 

SME Employer of the Year

DBCP (Derbyshire Building Control Partnership)

Less Than Zero Barbers & Training Academy

 

Construction Apprentice of the Year

Gabriella Day, Dalton Roofing Ltd

 

Training Provider/Programme of the Year

Chesterfield College Group

Juniper Training Ltd

 

Higher Apprentice of the Year

Harvey Ellis, DBCP (Derbyshire Building Control Partnership)

 

Gabriella Day, Dalton Roofing Ltd – Construction Apprentice of the year

 

Chesterfield businesses of all sizes can access skills advice by emailing: info@chesterfield.co.uk or visiting www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

For more regional awards visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/promote-your-business/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

New puppy play area to open in Chesterfield

DogLand Chesterfield is proud to announce the reopening of its newly rebuilt puppy play area, a vibrant, safe, and purpose-built space for the youngest members of our dog-loving community.

Severe flooding devastated the original puppy pen. But rather than simply rebuild, DogLand Chesterfield saw an opportunity to innovate. The result is a thoughtful environment for puppies’ developmental needs, playful energy, and social curiosity.

“We’ve poured our hearts into this space,” said Dawn Brown, founder of DogLand Chesterfield. “Our pups deserve the best start in life, and this new area is all about giving them a joyful, enriching experience. We can’t wait to see their happy faces bounding around again!”

Local dog owners and trainers were involved in shaping the puppy play area to ensure both safety and enrichment.  It includes:

  • Age-appropriate agility equipment, soft ground surfaces, and shaded zones for rest and cooling down.
  • Enhanced safety features include higher fencing, improved drainage, and durable materials designed with young dogs in mind.

To celebrate, DogLand Chesterfield is planning a launch event filled with treats, games, and photo opportunities. More information on the puppy play area will be available at  https://doglanduk.co.uk/

Dogland supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Thousands of people have say on future of council services

More than 7,000 people have shared their views in the ‘One Derbyshire, Two Councils’ survey. They commented on options to reduce the number of local councils from ten to two (with one option covering the north and one covering the south).

Derbyshire’s eight borough and district councils, and Derby City Council, launched the six-week consultation to gather as many views as possible from residents, businesses and organisations from across the county.

In a joint statement, the leaders of Amber Valley, Bolsover, Chesterfield, Derby City, Derbyshire Dales, Erewash, High Peak, North East Derbyshire and South Derbyshire councils, said: “Thank you to everyone who has shared their views on our options for the future of local council services in Derbyshire.

“People and places across Derbyshire must come first when we think about the future of the councils that deliver their services, and we felt it important to ask residents, businesses and organisations across the county what they think about the plans.

“It will take us some time to thoroughly review and collate the results over the coming weeks, and people’s views will be used to inform our final proposal and business case for how local government reorganisation should be taken forward in the best interests of Derbyshire’s communities.”

The consultation closed on Sunday, 10th August. Councils will now review the results, alongside a range of other evidence. Both will be used to shape the final proposal, which needs to be submitted to the Government on or before 28 November.

The Government will then consider the proposal alongside any others that are submitted for Derbyshire before making a final decision on which proposal to implement.

Following the current schedule, the Government will hold elections for the new shadow authorities in 2027 and the new councils will begin operating in April 2028.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield Champions business round-up: Strategic growth and investment across the region

Chesterfield’s business community continues to demonstrate strength, adaptability, and ambition. In this latest round-up, three Chesterfield Champions share major developments in corporate finance, legal services, and purpose-driven leadership.

Shorts Accountants played a pivotal role in a major international acquisition, advising Derbyshire-based Humphreys Holdings Ltd, trading as We Print Lanyards, on its sale to global packaging and label leader CCL Industries Inc. The deal marks significant inward investment into the East Midlands and highlights the strategic value of local SMEs to global brands.

Andy Ryder, Corporate Finance Partner at Shorts, commented: “It has been a pleasure for the Shorts team to advise the shareholders on this transaction. It represents exciting inward investment into the region, and we look forward to seeing the business flourish with the support of Avery/CCL.”

Banner Jones Solicitors has strengthened its Private Client division with six key appointments across its Sheffield and Chesterfield offices. The expansion includes experienced solicitors, will writers, and paralegals, enhancing the firm’s capacity to deliver expert guidance on Wills, Probate, LPAs, and estate planning. Kathryn Wheeldon,

Head of the Private Client Team, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Tina, Jake, Aimee, Sophie, Lucy and Savannah to the team. Each brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to client care, which is at the heart of everything we do at Banner Jones.” With a growing team of 20 specialists, the firm is well-positioned to meet rising demand and deepen its regional footprint.

The Devonshire Group has welcomed Kathryn Fleming as its new Chief Financial Officer, bringing over 30 years of senior financial leadership experience to the role. Kathryn joins at a time of continued growth and purpose-led transformation for the Group, which spans heritage, hospitality, property, conservation and charitable activity across the UK and Ireland.

“The Devonshire Group is an interconnected ecosystem – every business, estate and initiative is united by a shared set of values and a long-term vision,” said Kathryn. “My job is not just to protect our legacy, but actively build on it in a sustainable, responsible and ambitious manner, with the communities we serve at heart.”

Stephen Vickers, Chief Executive of the Devonshire Group, added: “We are delighted to welcome Kathryn to the team. She combines exceptional financial leadership with a deep appreciation of the Devonshire Group’s vision and values.”

Chesterfield Champions is a network of businesses and organisations working together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for the town’s future. To learn more or become a Champion, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions

Posted in Business, Home

Chesterfield champions celebrated nationally for excellence, innovation and impact

Four Chesterfield-based organisations have recently earned prestigious national recognition, showcasing the town’s strength in healthcare innovation, sustainable hospitality, creative entrepreneurship and education. These achievements reflect the calibre of businesses operating in Chesterfield and reinforce its reputation as a thriving place to live, work, and invest.

Walton Lodge Farm achieves Red Tractor certification

Walton Lodge Farm Estate, the 360-acre working farm owned by Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel founder Steve Perez, has achieved Red Tractor certification, a trusted mark of food quality, traceability, and sustainability.

Home to native-breed livestock and honeybees, the farm supplies seasonal produce directly to Cocina Restaurant at Casa Hotel and The Red Lion at Peak Edge Hotel, offering diners a true farm-to-fork experience.

“Our ethos has always been about farming with care, for our animals, the land, and the people who enjoy our produce,” said Craig Ellis, Farm Manager.

“The Red Tractor certification reassures everyone who dines with us that our food meets the highest standards,” added Alan Rigby, Executive Chef.

This achievement reinforces Chesterfield’s growing reputation for sustainable hospitality and culinary excellence.

DSFS wins national award for collaborative NHS procurement

Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services (DSFS), a subsidiary of Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, has been honoured with the Collaborative Procurement Initiative Award at the UK National GO Awards.

The accolade recognises DSFS’s pivotal role in delivering a major digital transformation across the NHS through the procurement of the Nervecentre Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system. Launched simultaneously at Chesterfield Royal Hospital and the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton in February 2025, the system is already improving patient outcomes and freeing up clinical time.

“This national recognition highlights what can be achieved through innovative thinking and close partnership,” said Stuart Ellis, Commercial and Strategy Director at DSFS. “I’m extremely proud of our procurement teams in delivering this project.”

The EPR system is expected to return 4.9 million hours to patient care over seven years, setting a new benchmark for digital efficiency in healthcare.

CRUSH founder shortlisted for national business women’s award

Natalie Burkinshaw, founder of Chesterfield-based design and creative marketing agency CRUSH, has been named a finalist in the Business Owner of the Year category at the National Business Women’s Awards.

Natalie launched CRUSH in 2003 as a single mother in her twenties, building a successful studio in a male-dominated industry. Today, CRUSH is an award-winning agency with global clients, including the iconic Ministry of Sound.

“I’m proud to be recognised for all the work myself and the team have done over the years here at CRUSH,” said Natalie. “Good luck to everyone shortlisted!”

Her story highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and creative resilience thriving in Chesterfield’s business community.

Kip McGrath named Independent Educator of the Year 2025

Kip McGrath Chesterfield West, led by Lorna Bell, has been named Independent Educator of the Year 2025 by Business Awards UK.

The centre delivers high-quality, tailored English and maths tutoring to students aged five and above, supporting learners of all abilities from those needing intervention to high-achievers.

Under Lorna’s leadership, the centre has grown from 40 to over 315 sessions delivered weekly, representing more than 750 percent growth. Over the past year, it has supported more than 120 students, with measurable improvements in academic performance and confidence.

Lorna has also registered the centre as an Alternative Provision, offering education to young people not currently in school, and has created an inclusive environment that welcomes children with SEN and EAL needs. “We’re not just tutoring, we’re inspiring,” said Lorna. “Every child deserves the chance to thrive, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.” The award recognises the centre’s outstanding impact on local education and its commitment to raising aspirations through personalised learning.

Get involved with Chesterfield Champions

The Chesterfield Champions network brings together businesses, organisations, and individuals who are passionate about promoting Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a collective voice shaping the town’s future.

Whether you’re a local business, a growing enterprise, or a community organisation, becoming a Champion is a powerful way to showcase your commitment to Chesterfield and connect with like-minded leaders.

To learn more or join the Chesterfield Champions network, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home