Congratulations to Anna Warrilow, Clinical Governance Officer in Community Services at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT), who has been successfully shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious Young Leader of the Year category at the 8th Annual British Forces in Business Awards.
The British Forces in Business Awards is the world’s largest celebration of military veterans who have gone on to achieve excellence in civilian careers. #
This high-profile event recognises the outstanding contributions of the Armed Forces community to British employers and the wider economy.
With more than 950 nominations submitted this year – a record-breaking number – being named a finalist is a remarkable achievement and testament to Anna’s dedication and leadership.
Anna began her career in the Royal Naval Service at just 16 years old in 2004.
After eight years of military service, she joined the NHS in 2012, starting at CDDFT as an Apprentice in the Learning and Development team.
Her commitment and professionalism quickly shone through, leading to greater responsibilities and eventually progressing to her current Band 6 Governance role within Community Services.
Over the years, Anna has demonstrated a consistent drive to support others, improve systems, and lead with integrity.
Her nomination was put forward by Matron Steven Shires, who praised Anna’s significant contributions to the organisation: “Anna’s journey within the NHS is a testament to her dedication, adaptability, and leadership. Since joining CDDFT in 2012 as an Apprentice, she has demonstrated a strong aptitude for supporting colleagues in delivering a broad range of training. Her ability to engage with staff, streamline training processes, and improve team efficiency earned her a nomination for Apprentice of the Year in 2013—an early indication of her potential and professional excellence.”
Matron Shires also highlighted the influence of Anna’s military background, crediting her naval experience for instilling the discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking that now underpin her approach to governance and leadership.
In response to her nomination, Anna shared: “Being shortlisted for Young Leader of the Year is an incredible honour, and I’m truly grateful for the recognition. Battling impostor syndrome, I often question my own achievements, so to be acknowledged in this way is both humbling and reassuring. It’s a reminder that hard work, resilience, and dedication don’t go unnoticed – even when I don’t always see it in myself.”
Please join us in congratulating Anna on this well-deserved recognition. Her journey from the Royal Navy to NHS leadership is truly inspiring, and we are incredibly proud of her achievements.
Best of luck, Anna, at the British Forces in Business Awards!
