Sarah Gough is head of operations for Mears Group’s accommodation and support services in Yorkshire and the Humber. Her team supports vulnerable groups of service users at 15 short-term accommodation sites across the region, safeguarding their welfare and well-being during their stay. Sarah’s leadership is grounded in empathy. She makes sure that both staff and service users are treated with dignity, respect and genuine care.

She has fostered a workplace culture where compassion, integrity and collaboration are central. Her team members consistently describe feeling empowered, supported and united by a common mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they support. 

Sarah is described by colleagues as a leader in the truest sense – someone who inspires action, loyalty and a belief in what’s possible. Her passion is infectious, and her commitment to the well-being of others is unwavering. She brings heart, vision and strength to a role that demands all three – and the people she leads, and supports, are better for it.

The judges said:

“Sarah is clearly an inspirational leader who goes above and beyond to cultivate a family of employees and service users. She creates an inclusive and nurturing environment for all her colleagues”