Former Policy Chair of the City of London Corporation, Catherine McGuinness, has been awarded a CBE in the New Year Honours for services to the financial sector and to educational inclusion.

Catherine was commended for her work as Policy Chair between May 2017 and May 2022. She played a leading role in the City Corporation’s response to the UK’s exit from the European Union and the Covid-19 pandemic.

As Policy Chair, Catherine worked closely with stakeholders across the financial and professional services sector to ensure it supported growth, investment and job creation in the London and the UK. She also worked closely with stakeholders across the capital, serving as a Vice Chair of London Councils.

Catherine chaired the government-commissioned City of London Socio-Economic Diversity Taskforce aimed at boosting socio-economic diversity at senior levels in the financial and professional services sector, which published its recommendations in November.

She also led the City Corporation’s work on education, chairing its Education Board, and now chairs the City of London Academies Trust. She was initial chair of governors of the City Academy, Hackney, an academy co-sponsored by the City of London Corporation and KPMG.

Catherine has been closely involved with the City’s cultural offer, having chaired the boards of the Barbican Arts Centre and Guildhall School of Music & Drama, and the City’s relationship with Northern Ireland.

Catherine McGuinness said:

“I am humbled to be awarded a CBE in the New Year Honours.

“The past five years were exceptionally challenging but I am confident that the City has a bright future ahead.

“It has been a privilege to work with so many dedicated people, whether from the financial and professional services sector, London local government, and indeed our own team, as part of a joint effort to rise to the challenges we face.

“I am very proud to have been able to play a small part in our work – encompassing education, employment, culture and many more areas – across London and the UK to help individuals and communities fulfil their full potential.”

A solicitor by training, Catherine practised in financial services law for several years. She studied philosophy, politics, and economics at St Anne’s College, Oxford.

Notes to editors

About the City of London Corporation

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk