Denise Coates CBE

Denise Coates is the self-made founder of online bookmaking website Bet365. Launched in 2000, Bet365 currently averages £12 billion worth of bets per year. In twelve years it has become the largest private-sector employer in Stoke-on-Trent.

She began her career as a cashier in betting shops owned by her father. She became Managing Director of the family's small chain when she was 22 and she quickly spotted the growing popularity of gambling websites. She was awarded a CBE in 2012.