Buckinghamshire Business First has announced that its Chief Executive, Philippa Batting, has been appointed by His Majesty The King as an Honorary Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE).

The honour recognises her years of service to the county’s business community and her role in strengthening Buckinghamshire’s economic prosperity.

Batting has long been a leading voice for small and medium-sized enterprises, working to ensure local firms have the support, connections and confidence they need to grow.

She has been instrumental in bringing together partners from across the public and private sectors, helping to create a more collaborative and resilient local economy.

Under her leadership, Buckinghamshire Business First has developed into a nationally respected Growth Hub, offering thousands of businesses access to expert advice, funding opportunities, training programmes and support to innovate and scale.

The organisation’s impact has helped cement Buckinghamshire’s reputation as one of the most enterprising areas in the country.

She said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this recognition.

“The work we do at Buckinghamshire Business First is only possible because of the incredible businesses, partners and colleagues who make our county such a vibrant and entrepreneurial place.

Chair of Buckinghamshire Business First, Michael Garvey MBE added: “This honour is a testament to Philippa’s exceptional leadership, her unwavering commitment to the business community, and her ability to unite people behind a shared purpose.

“She has dedicated her career to ensuring Buckinghamshire businesses have the support, voice and opportunities they need to succeed.”