The Yorkshire Dealmakers Awards Winners For 2026

Ever wondered what happens when one big company buys another one? It’s not as simple as just swapping money. It’s a massive project involving some of the cleverest people in business, and a lot of that talent is right here in Yorkshire.

These experts, the advisers, bankers, and lawyers, are called 'dealmakers'. Every year, the best of the best get recognised at a huge event, and the results for the Yorkshire region are in. The winners, announced in November 2025, are now getting ready to represent the county at the UK Dealmakers Awards in 2026, which is a pretty big deal. These are the official representatives for the whole region, a team of top-tier professionals who have shown their skill throughout the year.

So, what exactly is a dealmaker?

Imagine you and a friend want to trade something valuable, like a rare video game for a top-of-the-line skateboard. You’d need to agree on whether it’s a fair swap, right? Now, imagine that on a gigantic scale, where companies are trading things worth millions, or even billions, of pounds.

That’s where dealmakers come in. They are the teams of experts who make sure everything is fair, legal, and makes financial sense. This group includes sharp-minded advisers who guide the process, number-crunching bankers who handle the money, and expert brokers who connect the buyers and sellers. These dealmaking teams are behind the biggest business stories you hear about, working on complex and high-profile transactions that can shape entire industries. The competition to be named the best in the business is fierce, and the winners from Yorkshire this year have truly earned their bragging rights.

The individual superstars of the year

Sometimes, a whole team effort is powered by a few standout individuals. This year, the title of Dealmaker of the Year went to Richard Goldsack from Clearwater. This is the top prize for an individual, and it’s given to someone who has consistently worked on major deals. Richard was involved in a number of high-profile transactions, including a significant investment in a company called Lomond. It’s a massive achievement that recognises his skill and dedication.

Another top performer celebrated was Sophie Andran from KPMG, who also picked up a prestigious individual award. Having two such talented individuals from different firms highlights the incredible depth of expertise within the Yorkshire business community. These winners are the ones everyone will be watching as they head to the national finals.

Teamwork makes the dream work

Of course, most massive deals aren't done by just one person. They require brilliant dealmaking teams working together. In the team categories, several local firms proved they were a cut above the rest.

Here’s a look at the teams that took home the trophies:

• Corporate Finance Advisory Team of the Year: Translink Corporate Finance. They had a fantastic year, managing more deals and bigger deals than ever before, even extending their work internationally.
• Corporate Law Firm of the Year: Squire Patton Boggs. Their team of lawyers completed over 50 deals worth a staggering total of nearly £4 billion.
• Transaction Services Team of the Year: Deloitte, having worked on around 30 local projects, ensuring the numbers behind the deals were spot on.
• Equity Funder of the Year: Endless, a firm that provides the essential cash injections to make deals happen.
• Bank of the Year: HSBC, recognised for their crucial role in financing business deals across the region.

The deals that defined the year

Beyond celebrating the people and teams, the awards also shine a light on the most impressive deals of the year. These are the complex, game-changing transactions that stood out.

The biggest winners in the deal categories were:

• Deal of the Year (Large): The acquisition of BJSS by CGI Group. Congratulations to the teams at Addleshaw Goddard and KPMG who completed this major deal.
• International Deal of the Year: The acquisition of the Ecobat Battery Division by Endless. This globe-spanning project involved firms including Walker Morris, KPMG, PwC, and Argon & Co, showcasing Yorkshire's ability to compete internationally.
• Deal of the Year (Medium): The £15 million investment in Castings Technology by Zachary Asset Holdings, handled by Castle Square Corporate Finance, Wake Smith, and BHP.
• Deal of the Year (Small): The acquisition of DDH Services by Hollybank Trust. The teams at Azets, Weightmans, and Womble Bond Dickinson were instrumental in its success.

These winners are now the chosen representatives for Yorkshire and will be heading to the national awards in 2026. It’s a testament to the skill and hard work happening right on our doorstep, proving that when it comes to the world of high-stakes business, Yorkshire is a true powerhouse.