Four of the UK’s most influential businesswomen have been awarded damehoods in the King’s Birthday Honours, recognising their outstanding contributions to British industry, innovation and leadership.
Emma Bridgewater, the celebrated homeware designer and founder of her eponymous ceramics brand, was honoured for services to ceramics. Since founding her company in 1985, Bridgewater has helped revitalise the traditional pottery sector in Stoke-on-Trent, growing the business to a £36 million enterprise. Her company, known for its distinctive and playful designs, became a certified B-Corporation in 2022, underlining its commitment to social and environmental impact.
Debbie Crosbie, the chief executive of Nationwide Building Society, receives a damehood for her trailblazing work in financial services. Since taking the helm in 2022, Crosbie has overseen the £2.9 billion acquisition of Virgin Money and spearheaded a profit-sharing scheme that has returned £100 annually to millions of the mutual’s members.
Clare Barclay, who led Microsoft UK until 2024 and is now president of enterprise and industry for EMEA at the software giant, is recognised for her role in expanding Microsoft’s footprint in the UK, overseeing sales growth to £9.6 billion and chairing the government’s Industrial Strategy Advisory Council.
Anne Glover, the CEO of venture capital firm Amadeus Capital Partners, is honoured for her leadership in science, innovation, and entrepreneurship. A longtime advocate for UK start-up investment, Glover has been a driving force behind efforts to direct more pension fund capital into high-growth domestic firms.
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