Shortlisted for Generation Next Awards
At Midland Lead, we’re incredibly proud to celebrate a special milestone for two of our #teamMidlandLead —Kyle Hazeldine and Charlotte Summers— who have both reached 10 years with the business and have now been shortlisted for the Generation Next Future Leader Award. This recognition is a fantastic achievement and a real reflection of the impact they’ve made—not just in their roles, but across the whole company.
Two journeys, one shared commitment
Kyle and Charlotte both joined Midland Lead early in their careers and have grown with us over the past decade. Their journeys are very different, but what they share is a genuine commitment to the business, to their colleagues and to always improving what we do.
Kyle started with us in 2015 as a 19-year-old Telesales Executive and has progressed through the business to become our Sales Director. Over the years, he has helped shape our commercial direction, opened up new markets and built strong relationships across the industry.
Charlotte joined in 2016 as a Purchasing Coordinator and is now our Operations Excellence Manager, leading within the heart of our manufacturing operation. Today, she plays a key role in driving improvement on the factory floor, supporting her team and helping bring new ideas to life.
What makes us most proud is not just how far they’ve come—but how they continue to show up every day. Charlotte is at the centre of our operational improvements, working closely with the team to strengthen communication, increase engagement and encourage everyone to take ownership of standards and performance. She has a natural way of bringing people together and creating a positive working environment, which has made a real difference across the business.
Kyle has brought energy, focus and ambition to our commercial team, helping us adapt, grow and look ahead. From developing new opportunities to strengthening our sales culture, he has played a key role in shaping where Midland Lead is going next.
Kyle and Charlotte’s stories are also a reflection of what we believe in as a business. We’ve always been passionate about developing our people, giving them opportunities and supporting them to grow—and both of them have embraced that every step of the way. From training and coaching to taking on new challenges, they’ve consistently pushed themselves and supported others around them to do the same.
They are both fantastic role models for the team—and a great example of what’s possible when hard work meets opportunity.
Being shortlisted for the Generation Next Future Leader Award is a brilliant achievement for them and something we’re genuinely proud to celebrate as a team. More than anything, it’s a chance to recognise the dedication, energy and positivity they’ve brought to Midland Lead over the past 10 years.
Reflecting on the achievement, Francoise Derksen, Managing Director, commented:
“Kyle and Charlotte’s journeys show what can be achieved with ambition, support and a culture that invests in people. Both have made a significant impact on our business, and their shortlisting is thoroughly deserved. As they celebrate a decade with Midland Lead, Kyle and Charlotte stand as inspiring examples of what the next generation of leadership looks like—resilient, forward-thinking and committed to making a difference.
Whatever the outcome, their story is already a success—and one that continues to inspire those around them. Thank you, Kyle and Charlotte, for everything you’ve contributed—and for everything that’s still to come.”