Double bubble for our leader

The high-achieving, dynamic leader of Acorn Safety Services has been named as a finalist in two categories at the 2026 SME Northamptonshire Business Awards.

Zeynep Guzelkasap has a well-deserved brace of nominations in the much-coveted gongs, having been shortlisted for both Businesswoman of the Year and Businessperson of the Year.

Since Zeynep joined our leading health and safety consultancy in January 2023, she has revolutionised the company’s approach creating a unique business model, with three specialist experts heading up and managing their own divisions – Legionella, Fire Safety, and Health & Safety.

Zeynep has also been integral in Acorn Safety’s exponential growth, doubling its workforce, two office moves in as many years, winning contracts with big household names and hitting £1 million turnover.

Last year Zeynep was promoted from operations manager to operations director at our Moulton Park base, where she is renowned for employee wellbeing, championing women and looking after her team.

Acorn Safety Services, which provides health and safety services to businesses, charities and organisations across the UK, last year won the silver prize in the High Growth category of the prestigious local awards.

Zeynep said: “I am absolutely blown away to have been nominated for not just one, but two SME Northamptonshire Business Awards. This recognition is hugely humbling and is actually down to the hard work and dedication of the whole team, who are both a joy to work with and to lead.

“I wish all the finalists the very best of luck on the night and look forward to celebrating together. Northamptonshire really has a very special business community.”

The 2026 SME Northamptonshire Business Awards will take place on Thursday, 23^rd April, at Cinch Stadium, Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton.

For further information about Acorn Safety Services visit www.acornhealthandsafety.co.uk or call 01604 930380.