Jonathan Pagden is one of the UK’s most experienced live event voice artists. He revels in being ‘heard but never seen’ at awards shows, conferences, AGMs, and coronations. He is the 'Voice of God' during the Buckinghamshire Business Awards Ceremony.

"I’ve been the hidden voice at the Buckinghamshire Business Awards for four years now, and even though I do the same thing for all sorts of events all over the world, it’s always great to do a local event for local businesses. The Aylesbury Waterside Theatre being only fifteen minutes from home is also nice…

"Before an awards I always study the table plan to see if I know any names: there aren’t many Pagdens around, but I did once see one and had to go and say hello (we turned out to not be related). But the list for the Buckinghamshire Business Awards contains many familiar names, and between sections of the awards I try to talk to everyone I know.

"You’ll hear me on the night as the disembodied voice that Nathan often refers to, filling in the details of awards and winners. There’ll also be lots of telling you when to sit down and be quiet… I’m keeping everybody informed and keeping the evening on track.

"Because I’m doing it ‘live’ I can react to things that happen - extra loud cheers or departures from the script - and a live show is more interesting for everybody, because anything can indeed happen. 

"It’s known in the trade as ‘Voice Of God’, which you must admit is a pretty cool job title!

"I hope I’m adding sparkle, clarity and control to the event. Improving everybody’s experience, even if they don’t realise I’m doing it, is why I do what I do. If you go home happy, so do I."

Image: Jonathan in full flow at last year’s Buckinghamshire Business Awards. Picture by Vicky Baptiste @ Flux Photographic - another Buckinghamshire business.

Editor's notes:

Find out who won at the Buckinghamshire Business Awards 2025! For the list of winners, as well as photos, videos and reaction from the big night, visit the Buckinghamshire Business Awards homepage.