Lancaster Entrepreneurs in Residence make Northern Leaders 2026 list

Three members of Lancaster University Management School’s inspirational Entrepreneurs in Residence (EiR) network have been celebrated for their outstanding contribution to business, innovation and communities across the North of England.

Nicola Merritt, James Batchelor MBE, and Barry Leahey MBE are among the individuals recognised in BusinessCloud’s prestigious Northern Leaders 2026 list.

The list celebrates more than 200 influential individuals whose leadership, innovation and commitment make a positive difference in the region.

Nicola, founder and CEO of Cortus Advisory Group, was recognised for her entrepreneurial leadership and commitment to supporting business founders and growth.

James, founder of Alertacall, in on the list for his work on pioneering technology that supports older people to live independently and improves communication and wellbeing.

Barry, President of Playdale Playgrounds, is recognised for his contribution to manufacturing, business leadership and regional economic development.

All three are members of Lancaster’s EiR programme, which brings together experienced business leaders and entrepreneurs who share their expertise with students, academics and the wider university community. Their contributions strengthen connections between business practice, education and research.

Professor Radka Newton, Director of EiR programme, said: “We are incredibly proud to see three members of our community recognised among the north's most influential leaders. Nicola, James and Barry exemplify entrepreneurial ambition, innovation and commitment to making a positive difference. These are all characteristics of our network.

“Having business leaders of this calibre engaging with Lancaster University Management School is invaluable. Their experience, insights and generosity in sharing their journeys help inspire our students, enrich our teaching, and strengthen Lancaster's connections with the regional business community.”

The recognition of the three leaders highlights the strength of Lancaster University's relationships with entrepreneurs, and its commitment to connecting learning with real-world business leadership and regional impact.

Nicola, who is on the BusinessCloud list for the third consecutive year, said: “I’m delighted to be recognised as a northern Leader for the third year in a row, and to be ranked alongside such a high-calibre group of business leaders.

“The north has always had a fantastic entrepreneurial spirit, with ambitious people building brilliant businesses across the region, so it’s great to see that talent and contribution being recognised and celebrated.”

Barry added: “Discovering I had been nominated for the BusinessCloud Northern Leaders list for the third year running is a proud moment. Sharing the list with fellow EiRs Nicola and James makes it even more special.

“The recognition reflects a shared commitment to driving regional prosperity, boosting productivity, and inspiring future leaders. For me, connecting my role at Playdale Playgrounds with academia and regional advocacy is all about creating opportunities for the north.”

“The nomination came as a complete surprise,” said James. “But the fact that we have so many great leaders in the north-west isn't. I am lucky enough to travel extensively as part of my work, and have met leaders all over the world, but I'm proud to say that some of the best leaders and mentors I have ever come across are from our region.”