The human dynamo leading a thriving Northamptonshire health and safety consultancy has been shortlisted for another national award, adding to a plethora of recognition this year for the dedicated director.

 

Female powerhouse and operations director at Acorn Safety Services Zeynep Guzelkasap has been named as a finalist in the Best Female Leader category of the Best Businesswomen Awards 2026, which recognise an exceptional group of female entrepreneurs, business leaders and professionals who are making a significant impact across the UK.

 

The nomination comes just weeks after Zeynep was named Woman in Construction winner at the National Business Women’s Awards 2026. She also took the crown for Businessperson of the Year at the 2026 SME Northamptonshire Business Awards in April.

 

Zeynep has had an incredible impact on Acorn Safety Services, since she joined the ranks in January 2023. The company, which provides health and safety services to businesses, charities and organisations across the UK, has grown exponentially since Zeynep’s appointment.

 

She has doubled the workforce and created a unique business model, with three specialist experts heading up and managing their own divisions – Legionella, Fire Safety, and Health & Safety.

 

Zeynep, who was promoted from operations manager to operations director last year, has been the driving force behind Acorn Safety reaching £1 million turnover this year after securing large contracts with household names.

Now in their 12^th year, the Best Businesswomen Awards were established to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women across all industries. These awards celebrate the achievements of women who are not only building successful businesses but also breaking down barriers, creating impact, and inspiring others to follow.

The judging panel praised the exceptional quality of entries received across all categories this year, highlighting the remarkable achievements of women who are not only delivering commercial success but also creating positive change within their industries, communities and the wider economy.

Zeynep said: “I am blown away to be shortlisted for the Best Female Leader Award, which is the only one in these awards that isn’t earmarked for female founders. I don’t take it lightly and am very proud to be listed alongside some really incredible women, achieving really great things.

 

“As always, I’d like to thank my wonderful team. None of this would be possible without your hard work, trust and support. This is just the beginning for Acorn Safety, and I can’t wait to continue this amazing journey together.”

Debbie Gilbert, founder of the Best Businesswomen Awards, said: “Every year I’m inspired by the incredible women who enter these awards, and this year has been no exception. The standard of entries has been outstanding, making the judging process more challenging than ever.

“These finalists represent the very best of female entrepreneurship. They are resilient, ambitious, innovative and determined to succeed, despite the many challenges businesses continue to face. They prove that female entrepreneurs are a powerful force in the UK economy. We are delighted to celebrate their achievements and look forward to recognising them at our awards ceremony.”

The Best Businesswomen Awards Gala Final will be held on 16^th October in Daventry, where gold and silver winners will be announced across a wide range of business categories.

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