Over the past decade, the New Year and Birthday celebrations have consistently reflected the changing landscape of British business, from high-profile founders and fintech pioneers to industry leaders and representatives of responsible capitalism.
These figures stand out for their continued economic impact rather than celebrity alone.
Sir Richard Branson
Founder, Virgin Group
As you already know, Branson has continued to be recognized for his services to business, employment and philanthropy. His Virgin ecosystem remains one of the UK’s most recognized global export businesses.
Sir James Dyson
Inventor, Dyson
Recognized for design services, engineering and innovation, Dyson’s investment in advanced manufacturing and R&D has strengthened the UK’s reputation for high-value engineering, as manufacturing continues to expand globally.
Dame Carolyn McCall
ITV CEO
Known for his broadcast services and business leadership, McCall is widely credited with modernizing moribund organisations, first at easyJet, then at ITV, while championing diversity at the highest levels.
Mike Ashley
Founder, Frasers Group
A controversial but undeniable force in UK retail, Ashley’s expertise has proven decades of value creation, job creation and investment in British high street and sports retail.
Dame Emma Walmsley
CEO, GSK
One of the UK’s most senior female executives, Walmsley is recognized for services to the pharmaceutical and life sciences industry, a sector that continues to be central to Britain’s economic future.
Sir Charles Dunstone
Founder of Carphone Warehouse
Recognized for services to business and charities, Dunstone helped shape the UK’s consumer communications market and later became a leading figure in the philanthropic and social business.
Sir Ian Cheshire
Former CEO, Kingfisher
Awarded for services to business and sustainability, Cheshire has played a key role in embedding environmental responsibility in board-level decision-making across UK companies.
Dame Sharon White
Former Chairman, John Lewis Partnership
Recognized for business services and the public sector, White’s leadership spans policy, sales and management during one of the most challenging times for UK consumer businesses.
Taken together, these awards chart from industrial-era recognition to leaders who combine commercial success with innovation, management change and long-term impact on society, a trend that has been reaffirmed at New Year’s Eve 2026.
