Acorn Safety Services appoints new director amid continued UK growth

Acorn Safety Services has appointed Zeynep Guzelkasap as its new Operations Director, according to an announcement from the company on 12 June.

The Northampton-based consultancy said Guzelkasap joined in January 2023 and has held multiple roles since, including Business Manager and Operations Manager.

The firm stated that Guzelkasap played a key part in scaling its services and growing the business.

Acorn Safety Services has expanded its workforce to 14 staff, moved office twice, and secured new contracts with well-known brands.

According to Acorn Safety Services, the company was recently recognised at the Northamptonshire SME Business Awards and the Safety and Health Excellence (SHE) Awards.

From business manager to board-level leadership

Acorn Safety Services reported that Guzelkasap joined with 12 years of experience in construction, asbestos, and safety.

She holds a degree in construction management and has led internal operations during a period of growth at the consultancy.

The company said she contributed to contract wins and the adoption of new digital tools, including AI.

In 2024, Guzelkasap was named a finalist in the Woman of the Year category at the SHE Awards, which recognises individuals contributing to the safety sector.

The consultancy said this appointment reflects her long-term impact on internal development and strategic planning.

New office reflects consultancy’s continued expansion

Acorn Safety Services is relocating to a 5,400 sq ft office on Moulton Park Industrial Estate in Northampton.

The company said this new space is double the size of its previous office, following a team expansion over the past two years.

It noted that the move marks its third office location since 2023, driven by continued hiring and operational needs.

The company added that the new site will help accommodate its 14-person team and ongoing service delivery growth.

The building is located within the same industrial area as the company’s previous facilities.

Director reflects on personal and professional progress

Zeynep Guzelkasap said: “I am really proud of the team we have built over the last two years and the growth we have experienced.

“We are now working with some big brand businesses across a wide variety of sectors, helping them to remain compliant with regards to legionella, fire, and health and safety.

“Having previously experienced discrimination at university and in the workplace, I am also proud of past me.

“Being a woman in construction and health and safety, there are many times I could have given up and switched career paths, but I am passionate about what I do and am so thankful to have found a company that believes in me and supports women and mothers and encourages them to reach their full potential.

“This appointment coming just as we start a new chapter in a larger office is very timely.

“I’m hugely excited for the future.”

Company director highlights achievements and leadership

Fellow Director Neil Munro commented on Guzelkasap’s appointment in a company statement.

Neil Munro said: “Zeynep has really earned this directorship.

“Through sheer hard work and drive, Zeynep has helped us to scale up our operations, expand our team, develop innovative solutions to help customers to stay compliant, and win awards and contracts.

“We look forward to seeing where we can take Acorn Safety Services with Zeynep on the board of directors.”

Zeynep Guzelkasap named operations director at Acorn Safety Services: Summary

Acorn Safety Services has appointed Zeynep Guzelkasap as Operations Director.

Guzelkasap joined the Northampton-based consultancy in January 2023.

She was promoted to Business Manager and later Operations Manager within a year.

Acorn Safety Services stated she has contributed to team growth, new contracts, and internal operations.

The company said it has expanded to 14 staff and moved offices twice since 2023.

Guzelkasap was named a finalist in the 2024 SHE Awards’ Woman of the Year category.

The firm is moving into a new 5,400 sq ft building at Moulton Park Industrial Estate.

The new office is double the size of its previous site.

Fellow Director Neil Munro praised Guzelkasap’s leadership and achievements.

The appointment was announced on 12 June 2025.