Meet the Judges
The 2026 Bangor Business Awards will judged by an independent panel alongside the president of Bangor Chamber of Commerce. Click on the images below to read a short bio for each of the judges.
Derek Wright is a prominent businessman within the Ards and North Down Borough area, with over 40 years’ experience across the retail and property sectors. A well-established figure in the local business community, Derek is currently President of Ards Chamber of Trade, where he plays an active role in supporting and promoting local businesses and the wider economic development of the area.
Iain Joannides is Head of Regional Business for Invest Northern Ireland’s Eastern Region, leading a team of executives that help ambitious, export-oriented businesses start, scale, and innovate. He also works with local government, education providers and ecosystem partners to drive entrepreneurship, investment, productivity and sustainable economic growth across the region.
Chief Executive of Ards and North Down Borough Council, Susie is passionate about place shaping and place making. She believes in the collective partnership of local government, communities and businesses working in collaboration, to deliver meaningful sustainable regeneration of the Borough. Celebrating the success of our local business community is a key part of this and Susie is very much looking forward to the Bangor Business Awards and wishes all those who enter every success.
Councillor Craig Blaney is the Mayor of Ards and North Down and represents Bangor Central on Ards and North Down Borough Council. First elected in 2019, he is committed to supporting local communities, strengthening the local economy and promoting Ards and North Down as a great place to live, work, visit and invest.
With a professional background spanning communications, marketing and public affairs, Craig has worked extensively across the private, public and voluntary sectors. His experience includes strategic planning, business development, communications and stakeholder engagement, helping organisations build strong connections and achieve positive outcomes. As a councillor, he is currently a member of the Place and Prosperity Committee and the Environment Committee.
As Mayor, Craig has chosen to support Dementia NI and Young Enterprise Northern Ireland as his charities for the year. His chosen charities reflect his commitment to supporting people in our communities while also investing in the confidence, skills and opportunities of the next generation.
A career banker with over 20 years of experience across various financial institutions and departments, including retail, credit, distressed lending, and product management, with a primary focus on Business Banking. I have managed diverse portfolios mainly consisting of mid to large businesses. Currently, I lead a team of 28 Business advisers dedicated to supporting small to mid-tier businesses and helping them thrive in their markets.
Outside of work, I live in Lurgan, am married with three children. When I’m not ferrying them around, I enjoy walking, watching sports and spending time with friends.
Nichola Lockhart is an experienced professional with expertise in governance, stakeholder engagement, and organisational development. Having worked extensively with senior leaders and community stakeholders, she has developed a strong understanding of business excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Nichola is passionate about supporting and celebrating the achievements of the local business community and the positive impact it has on the wider economy.