Our Thrity-under-Thirty judges for the 2026 Awards bring expertise in leadership development, industry communications, sustainability and water efficiency.

We are delighted to have this expert and independent panel available for this year.

Henk Gieskens, Director of Client Success at Lyrical Communications

Henk Gieskens is a communications and commercial professional with a multi-sector background in national and international events. As Director of Client Success at Lyrical Communications – the media and events specialists behind the Installer and elemental brands – Henk plays a pivotal role in the built environment landscape, connecting manufacturers, specifiers, and installers to drive innovation across the heat, water, air, and energy sectors.

A champion for sustainability within the built environment, Henk serves as a Board Member of the Unified Water Label Association (UWLA). In this role, he bridges the gap between regulation and real-world installation, ensuring that best practices in water and energy efficiency are highlighted and championed.

Henk is passionate about the next generation of talent entering the KBB and construction sectors. He believes that clear communication and cross-industry collaboration are essential to delivering the high-performance, efficient homes that a modern built environment demands.

Sharon Southcott, BA (Hons), MSc, Cert Ed, ISMM Dip, CMgr MCMI, CIPD, Managing Director at Strategic Professionals

Sharon Southcott is the Managing Director of Strategic Professionals, a management and leadership development company.

She spent her early career in the bathroom industry in various Sales and marketing roles. She then went on to become a university lecturer in Sales, Marketing and Management and a Mentor on the Young Entrepreneur program at the University of Greenwich.

Since leaving full-time employment in the bathroom sector, she has partnered with many KBB organisations in developing their people. She has written for industry media and been involved in various industry projects.

Sharon has a passion for the KBB sector and continues to support people development.

Lee Cartwright, MA and Managing Director at the Unified Water Label Association

Lee Cartwright, MA is the Managing Director of the Unified Water Label Association (UWLA) and has extensive experience working across the bathroom industry on water efficiency, product information, and sustainability. In his role, Lee works closely with manufacturers, trade bodies, and regulators, supporting practical and consistent approaches that help drive improvement across the sector.

With a background in engineering and design, Lee brings a balanced and informed perspective to the assessment of innovation, technical performance, and professional contribution. He has a strong understanding of how individual achievement, collaboration, and leadership contribute to the long-term success of both businesses and the wider industry.

Lee holds a Master of Arts (MA) in Design Management, supporting his ability to consider not only technical and commercial factors, but also communication, user understanding, and real-world impact. He is particularly interested in recognising and encouraging emerging talent, and in highlighting work that demonstrates commitment, initiative, and positive contribution to the future of the bathroom industry.

As Managing Director of the UWLA, Lee is actively involved in industry engagement and supports initiatives that promote skills development, innovation, and responsible water use.