Familiar face on the Liverpool business scene, Sue Wright, receives recognition at national awards for her remarkable journey, leadership, and commitment to inclusion. Tony McDonough reports

Former barrister, to marketing entrepreneur and now property finance professional, Sue Wright’s impressive career spans three decades and has won her a special commendation at the UK Women of the Year 2025 Awards.

The honour recognises Sue’s extraordinary personal journey, inspirational leadership, and lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for others.

Now in its 43rd year, the Women of the Year Awards celebrate women who are breaking barriers, driving change, and inspiring others across business, public service, and society.

This year’s awards attracted hundreds of nominations from across the UK, with only seven finalists selected. The top award went to Rachel Corp, CEO of ITN.

Sue, a leading figure in Liverpool’s business community, first worked here as a barrister in the 1990s having cut her teeth on the trading floor at London-based Lehman Brothers.

Five years ago, Sue set up The Harrogate Group, a property finance firm with its roots in the Wirral. The company serves developers across the UK and now in Dubai, with funding ranging from small to multi-million pound deals.

But it is perhaps her personal life that really sets Sue apart. Sue spent her teenage years in foster care, something that seems to have shaped her philosophy and instilled her drive.

Once one of the country’s highest-paid family lawyers, over the last 17 years Sue has focused on building her own unique family, having fostered and adopted five children. She says being mum to those children is the “best job in the world”.

On receiving her special commendation, Sue says: “Being recognised among such extraordinary women is an honour in itself.

“This Special Commendation isn’t just about my journey — it’s about community, resilience, and making space for others. There’s always more room at the table, and I’ll keep working to ensure more people find their seat.”

Sue won special commendation in the Business Woman of the Year category. The judging panel praised Wright for her leadership in business and law, her advocacy for women and young people, and her work supporting those from disadvantaged backgrounds.