BD100 Awards 2026: Celebrating this year’s winners

The winners of this year’s BD100 Awards have officially been announced, celebrating the individuals and teams setting the benchmark for excellence in agency growth, creativity and commercial impact.

A huge congratulations to all of this year’s winners, highly commended entrants and finalists.

Business Developer of the Year

Sponsored by DNA Recruit

Winner: Sam Jones, Joint

Sam was recognised as a standout business development leader, showcasing resilience, ambition, adaptability and commercial impact at the very highest level.

The judges praised Sam’s outstanding financial success, commitment to smarter and more innovative ways of working, and impressive balance of strategic thinking, human connection and leadership.

Highly Commended: Bianca May, PMG

Rising Star

Sponsored by jfdi

Winner: Lucy Wilson, Buttermilk

Lucy was celebrated as an exceptional solo force, delivering major global wins, standout commercial growth and incredible impact in one of the toughest markets around.

Her drive, energy and results impressed the judges at every level.

Highly Commended: Sam Connor, PHD

New Business Win of the Year

Sponsored by ALF Insight

Winner: TMW

TMW took home New Business Win of the Year after demonstrating exceptional persistence, strategic focus and flawless execution.

The judges highlighted the team’s ability to turn a bold long-term pursuit into one of the industry’s most impressive competitive wins, driven by collaboration, deep client understanding and a disciplined approach.

Business Development Team of the Year

Sponsored by HubSpot

Winner: PrettyGreen | The Global Fame Makers

PrettyGreen was recognised for its strong growth trajectory, impressive pitch conversion rate and clear focus on fewer, bigger, better opportunities.

The judges praised the team’s well-articulated submission, which brought to life the strengths of each team member and offered real insight into how they win.

Industry Impact Award

Sponsored by Propeller Group

Winner: Julian Douglas, VCCP

Julian Douglas was honoured for his outstanding contribution to agency new business and industry leadership.

Through his roles as IPA President and Chair of UKAEG, alongside his work at VCCP, Julian has championed industry best practice and helped drive the international growth and reputation of UK agencies.

Celebrating The Best in The Business – of Business Development

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners, and to everyone who made The BD100 list this year. Thank you to everyone who continues to raise the bar for business development across the industry.