Global Recognition for Cambridgeshire Chamber Colleagues at British Business Awards

Two colleagues from Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce have earned nominations for a major global award that celebrates exceptional rising talent within the UK business sector.

Connor Butler and Dr Ilona Karpanos have been shortlisted for the Rising Star award at the 2025 British Chamber Awards—an annual highlight hosted by the British Chambers of Commerce to honour the achievements of individuals and organisations across the country.

The Rising Star category acknowledges emerging professionals who are already creating meaningful change both within their Chamber and throughout the wider business landscape.

Connor Butler, the Chamber’s Engagement Manager since 2022, has made a major impact in driving growth, engagement, and visibility for the organisation.

Under his leadership, the Chamber’s Patron Programme has seen its value soar by more than 300 per cent. He has also redesigned the Chamber’s committee model, introducing inclusive and dynamic platforms that better serve the region’s business diversity.

Notably, Connor has played a lead role in facilitating senior political engagement in the region—hosting figures such as the Business Secretary and the Chief Secretary to the Treasury through high-level roundtable events.

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

Beyond his role at the Chamber, Connor is a trustee of Peterborough Cathedral, a governor at a local school, and supports youth development through mentoring, work experience and college interview preparation. His broad involvement in community and civic life has contributed to a growing regional profile.

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 a Cambridgeshire business in successfully entering the Ghanaian market, creating a pathway for further trade opportunities. 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,” said Charlotte Horobin. “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.

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce will also host its next major event, Trade and Investment Opportunities, on Thursday 4 September at the Institute for Manufacturing in Cambridge.

The event will bring together trade experts, diplomats, legal professionals and business leaders to explore international strategy, market access and investment opportunities. Registration is now open: https://www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk/event/trade-and-investment-opportunities/

Upcoming Event Details: Trade and Investment Opportunities
Date: Thursday 4 September
Time: 8.15am – 2.00pm
Venue: Institute for Manufacturing, Alan Reece Building, 17 Charles Babbage Road, Cambridge, CB3 0FS

To learn more about the Chamber Patronage programme, contact Connor Butler at c.butler@cambscci.co.uk. For international trade support, reach out to Dr Ilona Karpanos at i.karpanos@cambscci.co.uk.

Noel Alberts

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