Joint CEO at Cosmic, Julie Hawker was very proud to receive her MBE for Services to the Economy at Windsor Castle this week. The investiture ceremony and presentation of the MBE medal was carried out by the Princess Royal, Anne. This made the moment even more special for Julie, having admired Anne's many roles and accomplishments over the years, and also being a fellow horse woman.
Julie was accompanied to Windsor by her close family and they all thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to take in the wonderful castle and its history and art. There was a real essence of celebration at the event and Julie was able to share some immediate photos with colleagues here at Cosmic in the build-up to the moment itself. The presentation of the medal took place in the Grand Reception Room. It is very clear that her achievement and honour with this award is one which she is keen to share with the whole team at Cosmic (past-and-present), as well as with her involvement in the wider SW economy and other organisations which she has and continues to support - SW Business Council and the Digital Skills Partnership in particular.
"Receiving the MBE is certainly a highlight in my career, and it is a strong reflection on the success of Cosmic and its impact over many years. It is very important to me that my many colleagues and associates reflect on that success and take recognition for the part they have played in supporting and inspiring me."
The Princess Royal asked Julie about the work of Cosmic and was very interested in the ways in which social impact was delivered through business and social enterprise. They also shared a brief exchange about the beautiful county of Devon and its enjoyment for horse-riders.
Kate Doodson, Joint Chief Executive of Cosmic, commented, ' We are so incredibly delighted and proud of Julie's award. For Cosmic it is not just a medal but a cumulation of decades of dedication and visionary leadership around important issues. The profile of digital skills in the region would simply not exist if it wasn't for Julie's passion and persuasion on the subject. Well done Julie, you've made us all very proud!'