The prestigious Merseyside Women of the Year Awards (MWOTY) has secured a major new partnership, announcing Rathbones as its headline sponsor for the 2026 ceremony. The announcement coincides with the opening of nominations for next year's event, which celebrates the region's most inspirational women.
A Partnership Rooted in Liverpool's Heritage
This new headline sponsorship represents a deepening of an existing relationship. Rathbones, a wealth and asset management firm with its origins in the city, has sponsored the awards' 'Entrepreneur' category for the past two years. The company's history in Liverpool dates back to 1742, when it was founded as a family-run timber merchant.
Today, Rathbones is a leading UK wealth manager, overseeing more than £100 billion in assets and employing 3,500 people across over 20 offices. Marion Reilly, Senior Director for Wealth Planning at Rathbones, expressed the firm's enthusiasm for the expanded role.
"We are delighted to announce that Rathbones is the headline sponsor of the Merseyside Women of the Year Awards," said Reilly. "These awards play a vital role in celebrating the remarkable achievements of women who inspire change and make a lasting impact in our communities."
Celebrating a Movement, Not Just a Moment
The MWOTY awards are the longest-running women's awards in Merseyside. They are renowned for spotlighting women who drive change but often avoid the limelight. The organisation prides itself on being 'a movement, not a moment', offering winners and finalists year-round support through networking, training, and mentorship.
Ellie Kerr, Founding Director of MWOTY, welcomed Rathbones' elevated involvement. "Rathbones has been an incredible and supportive partner... and Marion Reilly is nothing short of an MWOTY veteran, having been a supporter since 2012," Kerr stated. "We are over the moon to be welcoming the firm as our headline sponsor for 2026."
She highlighted the alignment between the awards' vision and Rathbones' commitment to fostering growth, supporting entrepreneurs, and helping the Merseyside region thrive.
How to Nominate and Key Details
Nominations for the 2026 awards are now officially open. The process is inclusive, open to anyone who identifies as a woman or non-binary. A range of categories are available for submission, including:
- Business Leader
- Women Making a Difference
- Community Leader
- Young Entrepreneur
- Social Impact
- Inspirational Women
- Women of Courage
The final deadline for nominations is midnight on Monday, March 30. The overall Merseyside Woman of the Year 2026 will be selected from all finalists through a combined public vote (50% of the score) and judging panel assessment (the remaining 50%).
The glittering awards ceremony will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza in Liverpool City Centre. Rathbones will present the coveted overall winner's award. The firm joins other sponsors, including returning partners like the Community Foundation for Merseyside and new supporters The City of Liverpool College and Brownlow Health.
Nominations can be submitted online at merseysidewomenoftheyear.co.uk/nominate. Further sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 event remain available.
