The powerhouse female operations director at Acorn Safety Services won a brand-new award at the National Business Women’s Awards 2026 on Friday (5th June).
Zeynep Guzelkasap was the first-ever recipient of the Women in Construction Award, which recognises an outstanding woman who is making a significant impact in the construction industry.
The prize, which was presented in a gala ceremony at the stylish Leonardo Royal London City Hotel, celebrates leadership, innovation, and excellence, honouring individuals who demonstrate professional achievement, advocate for inclusion, and inspire the next generation of women in construction through their work, mentorship, and commitment to the industry.
Zeynep certainly ticks all boxes, having been integral in the exponential growth of Acorn Safety Services since January 2023 when she joined the company, which provides health and safety services to businesses, charities and organisations across the UK.
Since then, Zeynep has doubled the size of the workforce and supported the business to reach £1 million turnover. She has also overseen two office moves in as many years to make room for the growing team, which has been strategically put together to meet the increase in customer demand.
Last summer, Zeynep was promoted from operations manager to operations director at the Northampton company’s Moulton Park base, where she is renowned for employee wellbeing, championing women in the industry and looking after her team.
The National Business Women’s Awards recognise the achievements of women who are shaping the future of British enterprise, from pioneering start-ups to established industry leaders.
Charlie Robertson, Senior Events Manager for organisers Events & PR said: “The National Business Women’s Awards are about shining a spotlight on the extraordinary women driving success and change across the UK. This year’s finalists and winners have once again demonstrated innovation, determination, and exceptional leadership, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.”
Zeynep said: “To win a national award of this calibre was such an amazing moment for me and to be the first recipient of the Women in Construction Award really means a lot after all the challenges I have faced to get to this point.
“In previous roles I was discriminated against because of my gender and, therefore, it is so important to me that women are championed, encouraged and celebrated in this sector. This award is for all those women who have fought to make themselves heard and made their own impressive achievements in the industry. I see you and applaud you all.
“I’d like to thank my incredible team for their dedication, hard work and unwavering support in my leadership. You make work a very enjoyable place to be and our success is because of you.
“Thank you to the National Business Women’s Awards and congratulations to all the other winners on the night.”
For further information about Acorn Safety Services visit www.acornhealthandsafety.co.uk or call 01604 930380.