There was a fantastic response from employees who nominated colleagues across all branches and departments for AESSEAL’s annual Dragon Awards.
The awards recognise outstanding talents in the business in the categories of Above and Beyond, Apprentice of the Year, Department of the Year, with the overall winner picking up the Managing Director’s Award.
Managing Director Chris Rea presented the 2025 awards at the Factory for the Future in Rotherham on Thursday 25th September to the following recipients:
Above and Beyond – John Boardman, Stores Manager, AESSEAL plc
Apprentice of the Year – Max Rose, IT Apprentice, AESSEAL plc
Department of the Year – Business Assurance and Facilities Department
Managing Director’s Award – Charlotte Peel, General Counsel, AESSEAL plc
Since 2019, AESSEAL has honoured its employees with the annual Dragon Awards, following its recognition the previous year by the Lord Mayor of the City of London as the inaugural Business of Trust Champion. The Business of Trust award highlights companies that are contributing to the establishment of a ‘lasting legacy’ of trustworthy and reputable business practices within the community.
Above and Beyond – John Boardman
John’s unwavering dedication to providing exceptional customer service, and his willingness to share the immense knowledge he has amassed over almost 40 years with the company, saw him receive numerous nominations. John started his AESSEAL journey as a van driver when the company was based at Mangham Road, Rotherham, and worked his way up to the position of Stores Manager, a role he has held for almost six years. Among his many achievements, John has overseen the transition from old carousels to Autostore and the many upgrades that have taken place within the Stores department, including the implementation of SAP (Systems, Applications and Products) in 2019. Respected and admired across the company, John embodies the AESSEAL values, going above and beyond, throughout his four-decade career.
Apprentice of the Year – Max Rose
Max Rose is the recipient of the 2025 Apprentice of the Year Award, with nominations from multiple departments and colleagues. They describe Max as the ideal apprentice – enthusiastic, hardworking, cheerful, always willing to help and learn. From day one Max has shown a “can-do” attitude, and a knack for lifting team spirits. While gaining valuable experience in the IT department, he has also explored other areas and learned about their work, committed to his studies at Chesterfield College, led Tree Walk tours, and taken part in social and charity events such as the sponsored walk for Andy’s Man Club.
Department of the Year – Business Assurance and Facilities Department
The Business Assurance and Facilities Department was named Department of the Year for its outstanding contribution to the Factory for the Future project. The team worked tirelessly to prepare the site and manage the building’s transition, demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and pride in their work. Manager David Montero played a key role in coordinating multiple teams, setting a high standard through his leadership commitment, and attention to detail. His care for the building has inspired the same level of pride and ownership across his department.
The team’s positive attitude and collaborative spirit have had a ripple effect throughout the business, helping to create a workplace we can all be proud of. A fantastic achievement by everyone involved.
Managing Director’s Award – Charlotte Peel
Charlotte joined AESSEAL at a time of change for the legal department.
She has a very positive attitude, always has a smile on her face, has surrounded herself with competent people and has earned lots of excellent reviews from her colleagues.
She has taken a great interest in the commercial development of our business, and her dedication to supporting the business in Europe and other aspects of our global organisation has been truly commendable.
