IEG CEO Rachel Nicholls shortlisted for Business Leader of the Year at Mercury Business Awards 2026
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Inspire Education Group (IEG) is delighted to announce that Chief Executive Officer Rachel Nicholls has been shortlisted for Business Leader of the Year at the Mercury Business Awards 2026.
The nomination recognises Rachel's exceptional leadership in transforming Inspire Education Group into one of the region's leading education, skills and workforce development organisations.
Since leading the merger of Peterborough Regional College, University Centre Peterborough, and New College Stamford in 2020, Rachel has overseen significant growth across the Group. Annual turnover has increased from approximately £45 million to £65 million, learner numbers have grown from around 8,500 to more than 12,000, and IEG has strengthened its role as a key driver of skills, innovation and economic growth across Peterborough, Stamford and the surrounding region.
Under Rachel's leadership, the Group has invested in industry-leading facilities including Stamford College's Modern Methods of Construction Centre and Peterborough College's Centre for Green Technology, helping to develop the skilled workforce needed for high-growth sectors while strengthening partnerships with more than 800 employers.
Rachel's nomination follows another successful year for Inspire Education Group, with the organisation continuing to receive regional and national recognition for educational excellence, employer engagement, sustainability and innovation.
Everyone at Inspire Education Group congratulates Rachel on this well-deserved recognition and wishes her every success at the Mercury Business Awards in September.
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