Yet again for 2025, we’re bringing back our popular festive spotlight — featuring regional businesspeople from across the north. We’ll be quizzing a notable name with 12 quickfire questions. Sam Hameed group managing director of Solution Performance Group, continues the series.

1. What were you hoping to achieve by December when you sat down in January, and did you get there?

At the start of the year, I aimed to strengthen SPG’s two core areas of Resourcing and Intelligence, grow our client base, and tighten up how we operate. We hit those goals and pushed further than expected in several places.

2. Tell us about three moments from 2025 that made you proud of your business.

Launching new capabilities within SPG Intelligence and delivering real value across multiple IT programmes. Building SPG Resourcing’s profile in the northern tech market, securing important client wins, and finally seeing the team pull together under pressure and deliver are genuine reflections of our culture.

3. What’s been your biggest headache this year?

Keeping up with fast growth on both sides of the business while holding the line on quality, a good challenge to have, but a challenge all the same.

4. If you had to describe 2025 using a Christmas film title, which would you choose?

Elf! A year packed with energy, growth and a bit of chaos, but all heading in the right direction.

5. What’s your number one priority when the office reopens in January?

Finishing our 2026 plan and making sure we start the year with clear direction and momentum.

6. Which business in the region has caught your eye this year, for all the right reasons?

Axiologik has stood out for me. I’ve followed them from the early days, and their investment in people and genuine technical strength is impressive. They keep adapting and expanding their offer, setting a strong example in the region.

7. Crystal ball time, what does 2026 hold for businesses like yours?

We expect increased demand for specialist IT skills, continued tech modernisation, and more need for flexible project-based delivery, all areas where SPG is well placed.

8. This Christmas, are you a full production household or a feet up and telly one?

I’ll be using the break to work on a few new projects; the slower pace makes it a good time to focus.

9. Crackers, Brussels sprouts or pudding, which one best describes your year?

Crackers, a few bangs, a few surprises and plenty to smile about.

10. Which business book, podcast or piece of advice has been your surprise hit of the year?

The value of keeping things simple, in process, communication and strategy. It’s the one thing that has made the biggest difference.

11. As you wind down for the festive break, what are you most looking forward to switching off from?

The constant decision-making. A few days without thinking about hiring, client work or strategy will be welcome.

12. In twenty-five words or fewer, what would you say to your customers, teams and stakeholders as we head into 2026?

Thank you for your trust, partnership and support in 2025. We’re excited for what’s ahead and look forward to achieving even more together in 2026.