In a night brimming with inspiration, celebration, and entrepreneurial triumph, John Mason International proudly stood in the spotlight at the 2024 Great British Entrepreneur Awards, where our owner, Simon Hood, won an award recognising his exceptional leadership and vision.
Dubbed the “Grammys of Entrepreneurship” by Steven Bartlett, former winner and star of BBC’s Dragons’ Den, this prestigious event gathered the UK’s brightest business minds under the opulent chandeliers of the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair, London, on Monday, 18th November 2024. Among the 1,500 guests were celebrated entrepreneurs like James Watt, co-founder of BrewDog, Simon Squibb of The Purposeful Project, and billionaire philanthropist John Caudwell.
With over 5,000 entries vying for recognition, the evening was a testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and impact of British entrepreneurship.
Leading in the Established Business Category
Simon Hood earned his accolade in the fiercely contested Established Business of the Year category, sponsored by Allica Bank. Reserved for businesses with 5–250 employees and a turnover of £500k+, this category celebrates companies that have risen above challenges, championed innovation, and made a meaningful impact in their industries and communities.
Reflecting on the win, Simon Hood shared: “This recognition belongs to the entire John Mason International team. Our story has been one of evolution, perseverance, and passion, and this award is a testament to the people who drive us forward every day.”
A Night to Celebrate Impact and Innovation
The awards, now in their 12th year, are more than just a celebration—they’re a movement honouring the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Francesca James, founder of the awards, highlighted this year’s winners, who collectively generate over £3 billion in turnover and employ more than 20,000 people: “Every year, I’m in awe of the entrepreneurs who come through our programme. These exceptional individuals are not only leading industries but also shaping communities and inspiring the next generation of business leaders.”
Conrad Ford, Chief Product Officer at Allica Bank, praised the winners: “Small businesses are the backbone of the UK economy. It’s inspiring to see so much innovation and drive, even in challenging times. Tonight is about celebrating their contributions, and I couldn’t be prouder to support these awards.”
A Legacy Reinforced
For John Mason International, this honour reflects over 140 years of unwavering dedication to making international moves seamless and stress-free. Since our founding in 1884, we’ve helped more than 10,000 customers annually embark on new adventures across the globe. Whether relocating families to Australia, professionals to the USA, or retirees to New Zealand, our mission remains steadfast: to deliver world-class service built on trust and care.
Looking Ahead
As the spotlight from the Great British Entrepreneur Awards fades, our focus remains on our customers. Simon Hood’s recognition isn’t just a reflection of his efforts, but a testament to the spirit of our entire team. This award reaffirms our commitment to making every move a success story.
Thank you to the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards for this profound recognition. For more about the awards, visit www.greatbritishentrepreneurawards.com.
