Fortitude Nicsa Global is delighted to announce that CEO Katy Upton has been awarded Company Leader of the Year at the Business Desk Awards 2025 for the East Midlands. The award recognises Katy’s exceptional leadership, strategic foresight, and dedication to fostering an innovative, inclusive, and high-performing business environment.
Katy has been at the helm of Fortitude Nicsa Global for the past five years alongside her fellow directors Greg Upton and Renzo Menendez, driving the company’s international growth while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunities for women in business. As a passionate advocate for gender equality, she also serves as Patron of Derby Women’s Centre, where she supports initiatives designed to empower women in leadership, business, and entrepreneurship. Under her leadership, Fortitude Nicsa Global has not only achieved record-breaking success but has also cultivated a company culture that prioritises equity, representation, and opportunity for all.
Speaking about her award, Katy Upton said:
“I am incredibly honoured to be named Company Leader of the Year at the Business Desk Awards. This recognition is not just for me—it’s for the entire Fortitude Nicsa Global team, whose dedication and hard work make our company what it is today. I believe that great leadership is about creating opportunities, fostering innovation, and ensuring that every individual—regardless of background—has the chance to succeed. That’s why I’m passionate about driving real change when it comes to diversity, inclusion, and supporting women in business. Winning this award is a wonderful milestone, but my focus remains on building a business that leads with integrity, inspires others, and continues to make a lasting impact in our industry.”
Fortitude Nicsa Global also had two other finalists at this year’s awards:
- Rob White, Global Head of Marketing, was nominated for Marketing Leader of the Year.
- Greg Upton, Chief Sales Officer, was nominated for Sales Leader of the Year.
Their nominations reflect Fortitude Nicsa Global’s commitment to excellence, strategic innovation, and customer-centric growth.
Speaking about his nomination, Rob White commented:
“Being recognised as a finalist for Marketing Leader of the Year is a huge privilege and a testament to the amazing work of our team. At Fortitude Nicsa Global, we pride ourselves on delivering creative, data-driven marketing strategies that resonate with our clients across the globe. We are constantly evolving, pushing boundaries, and ensuring that our brand reflects not just who we are as a company, but also the values we stand for—innovation, inclusivity, and customer focus. While I may have been nominated individually, this recognition is a reflection of the collaborative efforts of an outstanding team.”
Greg Upton, Chief Sales Officer, added:
“To be named a finalist for Sales Leader of the Year is truly an honour. Sales is not just about numbers—it’s about building strong relationships, understanding customer needs, and providing real solutions that make a difference. I’m proud of what our sales team has achieved and the culture of excellence we’ve built. At Fortitude Nicsa Global, we are always looking ahead, finding new ways to create value for our clients, and ensuring that our approach to sales is both innovative and impactful. This nomination is a recognition of the hard work we put in every day.”
As Fortitude Nicsa Global continues to grow, the company remains committed to leading the way in business innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable success. Katy Upton’s leadership, combined with the strength of her executive team, has positioned the company as an industry leader, proving that a people-first approach to business drives long-term success.
