Meet the Judges at the English Veterans Awards 2026

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Grant Cochran – Director of Operations, Company X Consulting

Grant Cochran joined Company X Consulting (CXC) in October 2017 following a distinguished 22-year career in the Royal Corps of Signals, where he served as a Yeoman of Signals. After leaving the military, he worked as an Independent Consultant and later as a permanent employee of a multinational defence company, contributing to a range of defence and government projects.

At CXC, Grant initially served as a Principal Consultant in a Ministry of Defence (MOD) client role, acting as Live Services Operations Manager for seven years. During this time, he also took on the role of Company Account Manager. Following a recent company restructuring, Grant has transitioned into the C Suite as Director of Operations. In this role, he will focus on ensuring the business continues to operate efficiently and effectively on a day-to-day basis

A passionate advocate for the veterans community, Grant serves as Chairman of the CXC Benevolent Trust, supporting former service personnel and as an Ambassador for Forces Transition Group. He has previously judged on last years event whilst also had the honour of presenting awards at multiple EVA events.

“Having previously judged and presented awards at the English Veteran Awards, I know first-hand how inspiring the nominations are. It is a privilege to be part of the judging panel once again and to recognise the outstanding individuals, organisations and communities who go above and beyond to support the Armed Forces family. The passion, dedication and selflessness shown in these nominations is truly humbling.”

 

Ron Spurs – Forces Support

Ron is an experienced leader and manager across both the public and private sectors. After serving in the RAF, he joined the Police Service, enjoying a distinguished career with Thames Valley Police and later the Metropolitan Police Service.

His roles spanned from leading policing in challenging inner-city areas to supporting Counter Terrorist operations and overseeing Corporate Risk Management. He retired at the rank of Superintendent. Since then, Ron has worked for local authorities as a consultant delivering crisis management services. He is also Chair of Witney (2120) Air Cadet Squadron and the Joint Service Cadet and Youth County organisation. He has been President of the Witney Rotary Club on two occasions, and in 2021 was appointed Deputy Lieutenant for Oxfordshire.

Hilary Hesbrook – Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity

Hilary joined The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) in 2011. As a Community Engagement Fundraiser, she works alongside the Royal Navy, the wider naval community and the general public to promote the work of the charity and encourage and support fundraising activities. Her varied role includes delivering training briefs to naval personnel, leading a team of volunteers to ensure the charity is represented at a wide range of events, and advising fundraisers on how best to achieve their goals. Portsmouth born and bred, Hilary has strong family connections to the Armed Forces and is proud to support the military community.
As partner charity of the English Veterans Awards, RNRMC is the principal charity of the Royal Navy, supporting Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel, veterans and their families. Many of Hilary’s volunteers are veterans, and she is honoured to have been invited to join the judging panel for this year’s English Veterans Awards, helping to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of the military veteran community

Oliva Lloyd – Hugh James Solicitors 

I am a solicitor in the Military Department at Hugh James, where I represent veterans and serving personnel, helping them access the specialist legal advice and representation they need.

I am delighted to be involved in the English Veterans Awards this year as a judge. Although this will be my first time judging, I have had the pleasure of attending the Awards previously and have seen first-hand what a fantastic event they are. They provide a valuable opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of our incredible military community, and I am honoured to play a small part in recognising those who have made such a positive impact.

Outside of my legal work, I am passionate about supporting the armed forces community and have enjoyed taking part in a number of fundraising initiatives for military charities. This has included organising a fundraising walk in support of Walking With The Wounded, as well as participating in firm charity events and walks raising funds for organisations that support veterans and serving personnel.

Neil Palmer – Operations Assurance Lead – Serica Energy
Having previously served in the Royal Navy as a senior NCO Marine Engineering Artificer, responsible for the supervision of the main propulsion unit and safe operation of machinery onboard operational warships, Neil has gone on to become an experienced leader in health and safety, and assurance management within the oil and gas industry.
Neil is currently employed by Serica Energy who positively support veterans and reservists within the oil and gas industry.
Neil is an active member of the Aberdeen branch of the Royal Navy Association and supports veterans within the industry.
This is Neil’s first time on the judging panel, and he is honoured to be representing Serica Energy in recognising the diverse talents and achievements of his fellow veterans

Kev Kerr – Director CXC Ltd

Kevin Kerr is a co-founder and Director of Company X Consulting Ltd (CXC Ltd). He is a former member of the HM Armed Forces and an expert in information security and cyber risk management.

Kevin Kerr is a co founder and Director of Company X Consulting Ltd (CXC Ltd), a specialist firm providing technical, operational, and cyber security advice to the UK Government and the defense industry. As a veteran of the HM Armed Forces, Kevin channels his military background into high-level information risk management, holding prestigious certifications including Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). Under his leadership, CXC Ltd has become a trusted partner in navigating complex defense security frameworks, while also maintaining a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility by actively sponsoring initiatives like the English Veterans Awards.
Beyond his technical expertise, Kevin is deeply passionate about philanthropy and supporting the wider military community. He serves as a Director for Torque Events, the organization behind “A Driving Force for SSAFA” a biennial charity motoring event that rallies participants to raise vital funds for the UK’s oldest national tri service military charity. Through his dual roles at CXC Ltd and Torque Events, Kevin seamlessly bridges the gap between cutting edge cyber security assurance and impactful charitable work, frequently sharing insights on veteran achievements, risk management, and the logistics of his charity rally adventures.

 

 

 

Sarah WINSLADE-HAWKINS – HSS Communications Lead & Personal Security, DXC Technology

I am the High Secure Services (HSS) Communications Lead for DXC Technology, where I combine my passion for clear engagement with a strong specialism in personal security. Alongside my primary role, I am a member of the DXC Armed Forces Network (AFN) leadership team. I love being able to help organise impactful events that support our veterans, and I’m particularly proud of DXC’s involvement in the Walking With The Wounded Cumbrian Challenge.

After spending lots of years working in vetting, I like to think I’m a pretty good judge of character! That doesn’t mean the task will be easy; the calibre of nominees is always incredibly high for these awards. Although I’ve attended the awards previously, this will be my first time being on the judging panel and I couldn’t be more honoured. I am immensely proud to help recognize and celebrate the incredible talents and achievements of our veteran community.