An influential Cumbrian businesswoman has made the final of a national award celebrating female entrepreneurship.
Kim Capstick, the Director of Operations at Netherby Hall Ltd, has been shortlisted in the Hospitality Industry category at the 2026 Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs) in recognition of her instrumental role in driving increased visitor numbers across its portfolio of businesses and commitment to developing the careers of staff members.
The EVAs are described as the UK’s largest celebration of women in business which reward entrepreneurial spirit, leadership and impact.
Kim Capstick has been named a finalist in the Enterprise Vision Awards.
Over the past three years, Kim has spearheaded a surge of up to 42% growth in occupancy in the luxury self-catering cottages and apartments at the Grade II* listed Netherby Hall estate, along with an uplift in guest bookings at the Michelin-starred Pentonbridge Inn.
She is also the driving force behind a major new visitor attraction currently under construction at Haithwaite Farm which will see the creation of a farm shop, café, tap room, event space, distillery, self-catering accommodation and a heritage centre highlighting the story of the Border Reivers on one site.
In addition to attracting more visitors to North Cumbria, Kim was praised by judges for introducing mentoring and career development programmes into the business. As a result, six team members have recently been promoted, and two apprenticeships have been appointed.
Kim said: “I’m delighted to be a finalist in such a prestigious event as the Enterprise Vision Awards which shout about the fantastic achievements of women in business across all industries and sectors in the UK.
“To be named a finalist in the EVAs is a very special milestone in my entrepreneurial journey and I’m really honoured to be sharing a stage with so many inspirational and influential businesswomen.
“There’s been so many amazing women who have played a big role in my career so far and I hope that my story can inspire other females to progress in business.
“This nomination recognises the talent of the entire Netherby Hall Ltd team and it’s great that the continued success and growth of the business have been acknowledged.
“Providing increased career development opportunities through mentoring, apprenticeships and internal promotions is something I am deeply passionate about, and I’m delighted that the introduction of these programmes has been highlighted.”
Kim joined Netherby Hall Ltd in January 2023 after more than 10 years with Center Parcs, where she progressed from HR to become a Village Events Manager working across all six of the brand’s UK sites.
She was shortlisted in the final of the Hospitality Industry Award for setting high standards across the business, delivering excellent customer experience, exceeding business growth expectations, implementing new practices into the business and showing ambition for further expansion.
The EVAs will be held at Winter Gardens, in Blackpool, on Friday, October 2.
