Construction industry campaigners awarded in New Year’s Honours list
A number of honours were awarded to construction industry processionals, including two people who've worked closely with the CIOB over the years.
Bola Abisogun, Founder and Chief Executive of Urbanis, has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to Diversity and Young People in the Construction Industry.
Bola, a CIOB Member for over a decade and a key part of the CIOB’s Diversity Special Interest Group, has been a champion of diversity in the industry and its associated professions for many years. He has been instrumental in setting up a number of networks to champion BAME representation and seek opportunities, both here and in the USA, for young people to gain industry insight and experience.
Chris Blythe OBE, the CIOB’s CEO, said: “I congratulate Bola for his diversity work. Promoting equality of opportunity within construction is incredibly important and he has done some great work.”
Chris Soffe, the CIOB’s President, also offered his congratulations: “The honour is a splendid achievement and a testament to Bola’s commitment and dedication and very well deserved.”
More information about the work of Urbanis can be found here: http://www.urbanis.co.uk/
Chris Harrop, the group marketing and sustainability director at Marshall’s and a director at the Ethical Trading Initiative, has also been awarded an OBE in the New Year’s Honours list. He has been given the honour for services to the prevention of modern slavery and exploitation.
Chris Harrop was a contributor to the Chartered Institute of Building’s 2018 report into construction and modern slavery. He provided valuable insight into how Marshall’s tackle exploitation in the UK and internationally and how the Modern Slavery Act impacts on business.
Chris Blythe OBE, said: “I am delighted that Chris has received this award and particularly delighted that his work on such an important issue is being recognised. This is an area where he has shown real leadership and made an important contribution to the construction industry.”
More information about Chris Harrop’s work can be found on the Marshall’s web site: https://www.marshalls.co.uk/media/news-article/370
Knighthoods were also awarded to two members of the National Infrastructure Commission as well as other influencers in the built environment. A full copy of the New Year’s Honours list can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-new-years-honours-list-2019