Helen Tonks MBE is the co-founder of Hydraulics Online, which she has grown from a kitchen-table start-up into a multi-award-winning global brand serving customers in 130 countries: the only UK Export Champion in the fluid power industry recognised by the Department for Business and Trade. Drawing on a background in blue-chip financial services and strategic change management, Helen brings both corporate rigour and entrepreneurial instinct to everything she does; always pragmatic, she is the first to roll her sleeves up and make things happen.
A passionate champion of SMEs, micro-businesses and start-ups, Helen believes deeply in the power of purpose and vision to drive sustainable business growth. She has a particular affinity for family businesses, understanding first-hand the unique dynamics, resilience, values, and ambition that define them.
Helen advocates for fellow business owners through mentoring, public speaking, and ambassadorial roles, and is widely regarded as both a trusted advisor and a role model for many. Recognised on the Northern Power Women Power List and the Northern Leaders List, she has been shortlisted three times for Mentor of the Year at the Northern Power Women Awards, recognition she never takes for granted. She is also an active contributor to education across the North, providing careers support to schools and creating business engagement opportunities for high schools and universities alike.
Helen’s biggest career milestone and ‘pinch me’ moment came in June 2024 when she was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List for Services to Business and to Exports – achieved alongside juggling the work-life balance with being mum to seven in a blended family: glorious chaos and the ultimate example of teamwork that she wouldn’t change for the world.
