We’re so proud to share that our Head of Fundraising, Tom Robertshaw, took home the award for Sales Leader in the non-profit sector, at the Yorkshire Leadership Awards 2026!
The Yorkshire Leadership Awards recognises individuals who act as role models, empower their teams and drive positive change across the region. Tom’s award recognises his exceptional leadership in driving the charity’s income and commercial relationships and ensuring vital funds for the children and families that we support.
Tom said: “While fundraising is the ‘sales’ function of a charity, at Candlelighters Trust we see it as simply connecting people to causes close to their heart. People don’t give to a charity; they give to a cause. The charity is simply the vehicle that makes that possible. Much less frightening when you look at it like that.”
Our CEO Emily Wragg was also shortlisted for both Public and Third Sector Leader, and Company Leader (up to 50 employees), recognised for her overarching guidance as CEO and her impact in the non-profit sector.
Philanthropy Manager, Chris Salt was also nominated for the Mentor Award, recognised for sharing his expertise within the sector and creating supportive communities to maximise the impact of not only Candlelighters, but also other worthy causes.
The finalists were selected by an independent judging panel featuring representatives from the Institute of Directors (IoD) and Lloyds Banking Group.
It’s absolutely fantastic to see the strength of the team and the leadership across the charity being recognised, not only as we celebrate our 50th anniversary year of supporting families facing childhood cancer.
