Pamela Maynard, recently appointed Chief AI Transformation Officer for Microsoft Customer and Partner Solutions, has been honoured with the prestigious Black British Business Person of the Year award at the 2024 Black British Business Awards. The distinguished ceremony took place at the InterContinental London Park Lane, recognising notable achievements and contributions of black professionals across the UK.
Ms Maynard, who joined Microsoft in October 2023, was previously the Chief Executive Officer of Avanade, a digital innovation company born out of a joint venture between Microsoft and Accenture. During her leadership, Avanade witnessed unparalleled growth, culminating in winning Microsoft's 2023 Partner of the Year accolade for the 18th time. Her tenure not only emphasized business success but also fostered a people-centred corporate culture, resulting in the company securing over 75 Best Places to Work awards. Significantly, she made history as the first black female CEO to lead a company named among Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work.
Presented by Cecil Peters, head of DEI and Advancing Black Pathways at JPMorganChase, the award highlights Ms Maynard's influential role in the technological and business landscapes. In her acceptance speech, Maynard acknowledged the collective progress and the foundation laid by leaders before her, expressing eagerness to see future trailblazers emerge from within the room.
The Black British Business Awards, now in their 11th year, aim to spotlight the achievements of black professionals and entrepreneurs in diverse fields, paving the way for the future generation of leaders. The 2024 theme, #NEXT, celebrates a decade of breakthrough accomplishments and looks ahead to the future contributions of up-and-coming industry leaders.
Other awardees included individuals from the Arts and Media, Consumer and Luxury, Entrepreneur, Financial Services, Professional Services, and STEM sectors, recognising both rising stars and established senior leaders. Among these honoured were Jimi Adesanya, Co-Founder of JM Films & Unbound Studios, and Geoffrey Williams, VP Colleague Attraction & Inclusion at Burberry, illustrating the breadth and depth of talent among black British professionals.
Special honorary awards were also presented at the event. The Ally of the Year Award, recognising efforts made by allies of the black community towards business diversity and inclusion, was awarded to Patrick Thomson, CEO Europe, Middle East & Africa at JPMorgan Asset Management. The Impact Award went to Rob Anarfi, Chief Risk Officer at Beazley, for his significant efforts in raising the visibility and reputation of black professionals in the UK.
Dr Sophie Chandauka MBE, chair and executive founder of the awards, praised the winners for their resilience, brilliance, and leadership, noting the significant role of strong women leaders in the UK business landscape. Cecil Peters echoed these sentiments, celebrating Maynard's recognition as a milestone for black female leadership within STEM fields.
The event, held in partnership with The Telegraph as the National Media Partner, continues to serve as an influential platform, highlighting the achievements of over 330 black British professionals and entrepreneurs since its inception.
Source: Noah Wire Services