Two Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce members whose work has benefited Fenland are shortlisted for prestigious global award

Two members of the team at Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, whose work has been particularly important to Fenland, have been shortlisted for a prestigious national award recognising outstanding talent across the UK.

Connor Butler and Dr Ilona Karpanos have been named finalists in the Rising Star category at the 2025 British Chamber Awards, a key event in the UK business calendar.

The award celebrates professionals who are already making a significant impact within their Chamber and the wider business community.

Connor Butler, engagement manager, joined the Chamber in 2022 and has since played a central role in driving member engagement, financial growth and strategic influence. He has significantly grown the Chamber’s Patron Programme, increasing its value by more than 300 per cent.

He also led a transformation of the Chamber’s committee structures into modern, inclusive forums that better represent the region’s diverse business community. His work delivering high-level political roundtables has brought key national figures to the region, including the Business Secretary and the Chief Secretary to the Treasury.

Locally, Connor played a key role in leading the Chamber’s engagement on the proposed Fenland Reservoir earlier this year, helping to bring together more than 100 businesses to discuss the potential impact and opportunities of this major local development.

He is also coordinating engagement between businesses and the A47 Alliance, campaigning for the dualling of this key transport route, which runs through Fenland.

“Connor consistently delivers above and beyond expectations,” said Charlotte Horobin, chief executive of the Chambers of Commerce. “He has made a significant and lasting impact across Cambridgeshire. He is not only a rising star within the Chamber but a rising force within the wider business community.”

Dr Ilona Karpanos, who joined the Chamber in April 2024 as international trade and economic development manager, has already made a major contribution to the Chamber’s international agenda. Shortly after joining, she supported Whittlesey business GCE Hire Fleet in securing a landmark trade deal with Ghana.

Her leadership in delivering large-scale international events has enabled more than 100 businesses to connect with diplomats, trade ministers and commercial experts.

“Ilona embodies the spirit of innovation, collaboration and impact,” added Charlotte. “She’s already helped businesses break into new international markets, navigate complex trade challenges, and seize global opportunities. Her support is making a real difference where it counts.”

Ilona brings a strong academic and professional background to her work. She holds a PhD in Political Science and International Business and has worked as a consultant across a range of sectors. Since joining the Chamber, she has also delivered internal training, improved support logistics for exporters and strengthened the Chamber’s capacity to assist companies in expanding overseas.

Charlotte added that the nominations reflect the strength of talent within the organisation and the region. “To see both Connor and Ilona recognised at national level is a moment of real pride for us and for the wider Cambridgeshire business community.”

Winners of the British Chamber Awards will be announced at a gala dinner in October.