Last Updated on: 7th August 2025, 05:58 pm
Two members of staff from Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce have been recognised on the national stage, having been shortlisted for a prestigious international award celebrating emerging talent in the UK.
Connor Butler and Dr Ilona Karpanos have both been named as finalists in the Rising Star category of the 2025 British Chamber Awards—an important annual event run by the British Chambers of Commerce that highlights excellence across the business community.
This accolade acknowledges young professionals who are already demonstrating exceptional influence and contribution within their Chamber and the broader business environment.
Connor Butler, who serves as Engagement Manager, joined the Cambridgeshire Chamber in 2022 and has since been instrumental in expanding member engagement, enhancing revenue, and amplifying the Chamber’s strategic voice.
He has driven a remarkable expansion of the Chamber’s Patron Programme, growing its overall value by over 300 per cent. Additionally, he led the revamp of the Chamber’s committee structure—introducing more modern and inclusive forums to reflect the diverse regional business landscape.
Connor has also been pivotal in organising high-level political discussions, successfully bringing senior national leaders such as the Business Secretary and the Chief Secretary to the Treasury to the area.
Shortly after joining, she supported a Cambridgeshire business in successfully entering the Ghanaian market, creating a pathway for further trade opportunities. Her leadership in delivering large-scale international events has enabled more than 100 businesses to connect with diplomats, trade ministers and commercial experts.
Since joining the Chamber, she has also delivered internal training, improved support logistics for exporters and strengthened the Chamber’s capacity to assist companies in expanding overseas.
The event will bring together trade experts, diplomats, legal professionals and business leaders to explore international strategy, market access and investment opportunities. Registration is now open: https://www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk/event/trade-and-investment-opportunities/
Upcoming Event Details: Trade and Investment Opportunities
Date: Thursday 4 September
Time: 8.15am – 2.00pm
Venue: Institute for Manufacturing, Alan Reece Building, 17 Charles Babbage Road, Cambridge, CB3 0FS
