Accountants and business advisors Whitley Stimpson has revealed the three finalists competing for the prestigious Business Person of the Year title at the 2025 Cherwell Business Awards.
Following a rigorous selection process Whitley Stimpson Directors Laura Adkins and Ian Parker interviewed a number of exceptional candidates before determining the final three contenders for their sponsored category.
Vassilis Ragoussis – Oxeco
Vassilis Ragoussis demonstrates exceptional leadership as CEO of Oxeco, working with his team to pivot the company from legacy bonding agents to cutting-edge filtration chemistries for clean water and air, despite taking on the role during a challenging time. His strategic vision has maintained investor confidence through R&D development whilst securing interest from several major potential clients, including opportunities worth millions once commercial. Vassilis leads by three core principles: be opportunistic and embrace transformational change, empower talented teams to succeed, and always prioritise emotional intelligence — putting people first, then product, then profit.
Aaron Rudman-Hawkins – The Evergreen Agency
Aaron Rudman-Hawkins exemplifies remarkable resilience as Founder and Director of The Evergreen Agency, having rebuilt his paid media and creative marketing agency after facing a significant downturn in late 2023. Determined to turn things around, Aaron repositioned the agency to focus solely on growth marketing for home, garden, and lifestyle brands. Adopting a content-first approach centered on becoming “famous to a few,” he launched podcasts and delivered industry talks that attracted clients directly to the agency. This strategic shift led to a dramatic revival, with substantial growth in both revenue and team size over the following year.
Sam Greaves – Cleenol
Sam Greaves demonstrates exceptional transformational leadership as Managing Director of Cleenol, Since taking the helm five years ago, he has guided the company through the Covid crisis, significantly increased profitability, and expanded its export operations. Under his leadership, Cleenol became a certified B Corp, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and social impact, and launched the SUN Fund to reinvest a portion of company turnover back into the Banbury community. One of Sam’s key initiatives was the introduction of a four-day working week, implemented without any job losses. This bold move delivered a 30% uplift in productivity and contributed to an impressive 75–80% staff engagement rate, earning Cleenol national recognition as a Sunday Times Best Place to Work.
These three outstanding professionals have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and meaningful contributions to the local Cherwell economy through their vision and dedication.
Laura Adkins, Director at Whitley Stimpson, said:
“As first-time sponsors of the Business Person of the Year Award, we found the judging process thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. Each finalist demonstrated exceptional drive and resilience with a clear vision for their businesses future, showcasing exactly why we wanted to support this award – they represent the entrepreneurial excellence that makes the Cherwell business community so vibrant.”
Ian Parker, Director at Whitley Stimpson, added:
“What truly impressed us was how these finalists had not only achieved impressive commercial success but also prioritised their teams wellbeing and development. Their strong commitment to supporting their local communities, going above and beyond their core business responsibilities, demonstrates the quality of leadership we’re proud to celebrate.”
Now in its thirteenth year, the Cherwell Business Awards continue to celebrate the outstanding businesses, charities, community groups, and professionals who drive growth and vitality across the region. A full list of 2025 finalists is available on the Cherwell Business Awards website.
The winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner on Friday 19th September at The Chesterton Hotel in Bicester. Tickets for the 2025 Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony are available to purchase via Eventbrite.