Prime Highlights:
- Sainsbury’s CEO Simon Roberts awarded a CBE for his leadership and contributions to the retail sector.
- Prominent figures across finance, defence, technology, and broadcasting recognised for their achievements and services.
Key Facts:
- Simon Roberts guided Sainsbury’s through the pandemic and economic challenges, boosting market share and stock value.
- Other honourees include Ian King (BAE Systems), Gary Hoffman (Monzo), and Matt Brittin (Google), recognised for services to defence, finance, and technology.
Background:
Several top UK business leaders have been honoured in the New Year list for their work in different industries.
Simon Roberts, chief executive of Sainsbury’s since 2020, has been made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the retail sector. Roberts played a key role in steering the supermarket through the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis while improving market share and increasing the company’s stock value by around 75%. During his tenure, he also served as president of the Institute of Grocery Distribution and was a member of the 2023 business council under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Other notable business leaders recognised include Alex Mahon, former chief executive of Channel 4, who received a CBE for her contributions to broadcasting and diversity, and John Pettigrew, former National Grid chief executive, awarded a CBE for services to energy after nearly a decade leading the company that manages much of Britain’s electricity grid.
The defence and transport sectors were also recognised, with former BAE Systems chief executive Ian King receiving a CBE for his long-standing work. Richard Harpin, founder of HomeServe, was knighted for his services to politics and his involvement in charitable and public initiatives.
In finance and technology, Gary Hoffman, chair of Monzo and former Northern Rock chief executive, was awarded a CBE for his contributions to the economy and sport. Matt Brittin, former head of Google in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, was recognised for his work in technology and improving digital skills.
Other honourees include Pamela Maynard from Microsoft, Jonathan Hague of Unilever, Peter Higgins of Charles Tyrwhitt, and Mark Reynolds of Mace, each acknowledged for their contributions to business, technology, and innovation.
The list shows how UK business leaders are making a difference in retail, energy, defence, finance, broadcasting, and technology, and their impact on the country’s economy and society.