Meet The Judges
Our Gold, Silver and Bronze award winners of each category have been chosen by our Independent Judging Panel. The Judging panels names and profiles are all below. No Judges took part in judging of any categories they have affiliations or close relationships with or shortlisted finalists that are known to them on a personal level, full disclosure was carried out at the start of the panel and Judges were spilt into separate pods to ensure fairness to all shortlisted finalists.
Our Shortlisted finalists were filmed in the fantastic Location of The Officers Mess at Maindy Barracks on the 11th June. These videos will then be used on our extensive media campaign and will also be played on the evening itself, on this day they also received their finalist certificates and got to network with other finalists on this positive afternoon for our community.
All our Shortlisted Finalists / Supporters have the opportunity to secure your tickets between 28th May – 20th June.
All money above costs from our awards will put back into our Veteran community via our small grants scheme for small grass routes Charitable organisations that support our Veteran Community and with a turnover of under 100k PA.
Dan Keane – Chief Project Officer Vindico
Within my current role within Vindico, I focus on delivering the organisation’s growth strategy by overseeing the successful delivery of the diverse project portfolio; ensuring alignment and delivery of both customer and business goals.
Prior to joining Vindico, my experience was obtained within the Defence and Higher Education sectors, having held multiple leadership roles responsible for wide-ranging and varied operational services and portfolios.
It’s great to be involved with the Welsh Veterans Awards as part of the judging panel, as supporting the veteran (and wider military) community is something that the business and I are very keen on and care a great deal about.
Knowing how difficult it can be to transition from military to civilian life, as well as also being very aware of the talent and capability that our Armed Forces Veterans possess, I’m thoroughly looking forward to hearing about the successes of the people nominated for the awards and delighted to be able to contribute to their well deserved recognition.
Jennifer Smith Biography – Service Delivery Manager – Thales Wales, Cyber Digital Solutions (CDS) UK
Jennifer Smith is a dedicated Service Delivery Manager at Thales, where she has been instrumental in driving operational excellence for the past four years at the Ebbw Vale facility. With over 11 years of management experience in the telecommunications industry, Jennifer has a proven track record of delivering high-quality services and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Her comprehensive expertise encompasses team leadership, project management, and strategic planning, enabling her to effectively manage complex service delivery processes. Jennifer thrives on collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement innovative solutions that meet business objectives and exceed client expectations.
Passionate about continuous improvement, she remains committed to optimizing service delivery within the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape. Jennifer’s leadership and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to both her team and the organization.
Ryan Fitzgerald – Operations Centre Manager, Vigilance
I am currently the Operations Centre Manager at Vigilance and an Armed Forces veteran, having proudly served eight years with the Cheshire Regiment from 1996 to 2004.
Following my military service, I transitioned into the security sector, where I gained extensive experience across various roles, including CCTV installation and engineering, locksmithing, and more recently, manned guarding and operational management.
I was honoured to be invited to judge the Welsh Veterans Awards after attending as a guest alongside Vigilance COO Ed Mills in the previous year. Witnessing the incredible impact and achievements of the nominees left a lasting impression.
Vigilance has proudly supported the Welsh Veterans Awards for several years and looks forward to continuing its support of this meaningful initiative.
Laura-Jayne Carroll, HR Manager, Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission Systems UK
I served for 10 years in the Royal Air Force, followed by 13 years in the British Army. Since leaving the military, I’ve been continually inspired by the veterans’ community and the incredible individuals and organisations that support it.
I now work for SNC MS UK who are proud holders of the gold Armed Forces Covenant award, recognising our enduring commitment to supporting veterans, reservists, and the wider armed forces community in the workplace.
As a past finalist of the Welsh Veterans Awards, I’m honoured to return this year as a judge—supporting an initiative that celebrates the achievements, innovation, and continued contributions of our veterans in civilian life. I’m truly looking forward to hearing the incredible impact and success stories of those who have served.
Phillip Morgan – Sales Operations Manager for Bridgend Audi, part of the Sinclair Group
I am the Sales Operations Manager for Bridgend Audi, part of the Sinclair Group. I have been at Bridgend Audi for some 22 years, previously working with other brands within the motor trade sector following my 7year regular service and 5years Reserve in the HM forces (Army). I have also been involved with a local Veterans Hub, playing an active part and with Bridgend Audi supporting them with events and helping the Local Veterans, when I’m not doing that, I have 5 Grandchildren so they keep me busy!
Sinclair group are celebrating their 80th Year a significant milestone. For 80 years, we’ve proudly represented some of the most prestigious automotive brands in the World. As a family-run business, our success is built on trust, exceptional service, and strong connections with our people and customers. We have a lasting commitment to relationships and excellence in everything we do. We take extreme pride in our position within the community and see supporting the Veteran’s Awards as a great union for us.
Bridgend Audi was first involved with the Veterans Awards in 2020, I was privileged to be asked to present at the 2022 awards and have been truly inspired by the outstanding efforts and contributions of everyone involved. To see some of the endeavours and accomplishments of the ex-service personnel is remarkable. I am really excited to be participating in the judging panel this year and meeting and learning about the 2025 finalists.
Sharon Davies-Powell, Educ8
As Director of Operations Sharon has full responsibility for the delivery of Educ8’s apprenticeship portfolio, as well as the JGW+ Schemes. The MIS/administration function also sits within her remit.
An experienced senior manager, Sharon has a proven track record of operational and strategic success. This has been forged over many years in the education and manufacturing sectors where she has specialised in work-based learning apprenticeships and safety critical production.
Having worked with training providers and manufacturers in Wales, Sharon has invaluable knowledge of these sectors. This experience includes working as Head of Coaching and Development for a specialised manufacturer delivering key military, medical and transportation contracts for global clients.
Alison Young, Head of Communications, the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales
Alison is Head of Communications at the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales, where she works within the Engagement Team.
The Reserves Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales is the enabling voice for reserves and cadets in Wales. It is an ‘arms length body’ of the Ministry of Defence, provides support to the three Services and connects Defence with society through the provision of an extensive ‘network of networks’.
The former journalist, who joined RFCA for Wales five years ago, is delighted to this year join the judging team for the Welsh Veterans Awards. “After reading some of the amazing personal stories and inspiring achievements of previous finalists, I look forward to hearing about the 2025 finalists,” said Alison.
As a distinguished judge for the Welsh Veterans Awards, Peter brings a wealth of experience and empathy to the table. He intimately understands the trials faced by veterans and their families, and remains resolute in honouring and celebrating their invaluable contributions and achievements.
Nikolai Llewellyn – Solicitor, Hugh James
“Nikolai is a solicitor within the military department at Hugh James, where they specialise in supporting current and former military personnel with a wide range of service-related health conditions and injuries. Their legal work places a particular focus on occupational disease, including noise-induced hearing loss, non-freezing cold injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Driven by a deep admiration for the armed forces, Nikolai brings both professional expertise and personal respect to every case. Growing up inspired by the courage and resilience of military heroes—ranging from the defenders of Rorke’s Drift and the Zulu warriors to the quiet leadership of Captain Dick Winters and Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment—Nikolai developed a lasting appreciation for those who have served. A lifelong fascination with military aviation, especially the B-17 Flying Fortress and the iconic Lancaster bomber, has further shaped their perspective on the profound sacrifices made by generations of servicemen and women.
In his role at Hugh James, Nikolai is proud to stand alongside those who have served, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected. Their work is grounded in a daily reminder of the strength, dedication, and quiet resolve of the armed forces community.
Outside of the office, Nikolai has demonstrated his personal commitment to military causes by raising funds for charities, including completing the renowned Fan Dance—an SAS selection test—within the required time parameters.
With a steadfast respect for those who have worn and continue to wear the uniform, Nikolai is honoured to contribute to events that recognise the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces, past and present.”
Jack Dickinson – Solicitor, Hugh James
As a specialist solicitor within the Military Department at Hugh James, Jack represents injured soldiers and veterans who are seeking justice. Hugh James represents thousands of soldiers and veterans in a wide range of legal matters and Jack specialises in hearing loss claims, obtaining successful outcomes and thousands in compensation for clients. Hugh James have been a proud sponsor of the Welsh Veterans awards since 2019 and Jack has regularly sat as a judge for the awards since that time.
Sarah Stafford – Forces Employment Charity
Working on the Career Transition Partnership program as the Employer Relationship Manager for Wales where she manages relationships from large multinational employers to more local SMEs helping them with their recruitment activities. Also sign posting Service Leavers to organisations who will support them in their transition from military to civvie street
Sarah is a member of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation
Amy Reynolds, Southwest and Wales Engagement Officer, Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity
Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) is the principal charity of the Royal Navy and exists to support every sailor, marine and their families, for life. As the Engagements Officer for the Southwest & Wales with the RNRMC, I work within the Fundraising team. My role focuses on maximising engagement with the Charity’s key stakeholder groups in the region. This includes raising awareness of the support services available to beneficiary groups and promoting ways to get involved in our charity projects and campaigns.
With over 10 years of experience working alongside and supporting the military community. As someone with lived experience as part of a military family, I bring both personal understanding and professional insight to everything I do.
I’m truly honoured to be invited to join this year’s Welsh Veterans Awards judging panel. It’s a real privilege to help shine a light on the outstanding achievements of veterans who continue to inspire others and make a meaningful impact in their communities. Their dedication, resilience, and continued spirit of service are a true reflection of the values that define the Armed Forces.
