EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2025: UK winners announced

Mia Drennan of GLAS has been named the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year^TM 2025 UK overall winner.

A trailblazing entrepreneur in the financial services sector, Mia Drennan has redefined global debt administration by building the world’s largest independent loan agency and trustee services provider. The judges recognised Mia for creating an entirely new business category, scaling GLAS across 10 countries with minimal capital, while building a unique, independent platform that now services over £500 billion AUM. Her leadership has not only disrupted traditional banking models but also championed diversity, innovation, and mental health initiatives, setting new standards for the industry and establishing her as a true differentiator. Mia Drennan will represent the UK at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year^TM in May 2026 in Monaco.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year^TM recognises exceptional entrepreneurs who demonstrate extraordinary vision, resilience, and dedication to making a positive impact. The programme celebrates leaders who not only excel in business but who also work to improve quality of life in their communities, countries, and around the world.

The programme’s 11 UK finalists were selected by a panel of three independent UK judges, with inputs from independent judging panels representing five UK regions: London, South, Midlands, North and Scotland. The judges individually and collectively reviewed 98 regional finalist applications submitted by 84 businesses which, in aggregate, generate over £3.6 billion of revenue and employ over 20,000 people across a diverse range of sectors, including consumer, financial services, healthcare, and technology.

As well as the overall UK winner, the 2025 UK final also recognised five regional winners:

• Owen Coyle and Michael Sweeney of Union Technical Services were named the 2025 Scotland Region winner. Relentless entrepreneurs whose drive and commitment to excellence have built a thriving, sustainable business in the energy services sector. Their reputation is founded on doing the small things consistently well, earning them continued success and recognition as leaders in energy efficiency and social impact.
• Clare Roberts of Kids Planet Day Nurseries was named 2025 North Region winner. A visionary leader whose passion for early years education has touched the lives of hundreds of thousands of children and their families. Clare champions accessibility, career development, and colleague growth through a pioneering training academy that is transforming the sector and setting new standards for quality and inclusion.
• Gill Pearson of Newberry International Produce was named 2025 Midlands Region winner. A remarkable strategist and quiet force in the retail sector, Gill’s extraordinary buyout story and determination defy convention. She leads a £100m global food business, driving innovation and growth while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
• Simmy Dhillon, founder of Simmer Eats, was named 2025 South Region winner. He built a category-leading brand from just £10 in a university kitchen, later leaving Google to pursue his vision full-time. Bootstrapped, profitable, and 100% self-funded, Simmer Eats uses AI and data to optimise its supply chain and minimise food waste, proving that growth can align with sustainability. As a first-generation British-Asian founder, Simmy has made healthy eating accessible and affordable while championing diversity, inclusion, and community initiatives.
• And Mia Drennan of GLAS, was also recognised as the 2025 London Region winner.

The judges also awarded Special Commendations to Scott Monks and Somayeh Taheri, recognising their exceptional contributions.

• Scott Monks, Rocksteady Music School: Recognised for impact, Scott has used music to give confidence, connection, and joy to over 100,000 children. His business is built on heart, purpose, and social impact, making a real difference in young lives.
• Dr. Somayeh Taheri, UrbanChain: Recognised for disrupting a traditional industry, Somayeh’s business model could impact every household in the country. Her vision is to make energy affordable for all and reshape the sector through innovation and determination.

Ally Scott, EY Entrepreneur Of The YearTM UK, Co-Partner Lead, said: “This year’s finalists are redefining what it means to lead with purpose. Their bold thinking, resilience and ability to turn challenges into opportunities are driving real change – not just in their industries but across the UK economy. Congratulations to Mia and all our winners – your success is a testament to your extraordinary impact.”

Alexandra Fogal, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year^TM UK, Co-Partner Lead, said: “These entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of innovation in the UK. Through their vision, grit and commitment to progress, they’re building businesses that inspire, uplift communities and pave the way for a more connected and inclusive future. Congratulations to all the winners!”

The headline sponsor of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year^TM 2025 UK programme is Swiss wealth management group Julius Baer International Limited.