Inspirational figures from Yorkshire and the Humber’s business, charity and NHS sectors feature prominently in Northern Leaders 2026.

Now in its third year, Northern Leaders celebrates 200 entries recognising people who are making the North a better place.

This year’s list features 93 new entries from the worlds of business, sport, politics, charity, education, philanthropy, property and beyond.

The individuals recognised come from across the North West, North East and Yorkshire and the Humber.

Northern Leaders 2026

One of the new names on the list is Karlie Thompson, whose survival story is nothing short of extraordinary.

As well as being a trustee of Rotherham Hospice, she works as an associate director of communications for the NHS.

Karlie Thompson had both her legs amputated after developing sepsis

After contracting pneumococcal pneumonia, she developed sepsis, septic shock and multi-organ failure, suffered a stroke and spent more than two weeks in a coma.

Given just a five per cent chance of survival, she defied the odds but lost both legs.

Her mantra sums up her determination and resilience: “Suck it up, princess.”

Another name on the list is Gavin Howarth, CEO of Howarths, a family-run business specialising in HR, employment law, business immigration law, and health and safety advice and support.

Earlier this year, he wrote movingly about the sudden deaths of his parents, Andy and Helen Howarth, who founded the business.

Gavin Howarth wrote movingly about the deaths of his parents, Andy and Helen Howarth, within a few days

The couple also established the Howarths Foundation, which helps people who have experienced homelessness secure employment.

Other names from Yorkshire and the Humber recognised in Northern Leaders 2026 include:

  1. Martin Jenkins: Recently stepped down as chair of the Yorkshire fundraising board at Maggie’s, the cancer support charity.
  2. Dr Charlotte Armitage: A psychologist, psychotherapist and media psychologist who has become a leading voice on the impact of devices, social media and AI on individuals, families and society.
  3. Rachel Hannan: An experienced chair, non-executive director, angel investor and business adviser who is passionate about putting purpose before profit.
  4. Adam Hildreth: After exiting Leeds-based Crisp Thinking, the entrepreneur is back with venture studio Hard Graft Ventures.
  5. Henri Murison MBE: Chief executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, who has been awarded an MBE.
  6. Professor Richard Stubbs: Chief executive of Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber and co-founder of Health Hundred North, a new leadership forum bringing together influential figures from across the health and care sector.

The headline sponsor of Northern Leaders 2026 is OBI, supported by law firm CG Professional, GM Business Growth Hub and Rochdale Development Agency.

Everyone featured on the list will be invited to the Northern Leaders 2026 awards evening at KPMG’s Manchester office on November 19.