Franklin Chair awarded DBE in New Year’s Honours

Chair of the Franklin Board for Trustees, Dr Vivienne Cox, has been appointed Dame of the British Empire in the 2021 New Year’s Honours. The award is one of the most senior awards given by the Queen, appointing members to the Order of the British Empire

Professor James Naismith, Director of the Franklin, said “we all wish Vivienne huge congratulations on this award, which recognises her career-long efforts in advancing science in the UK. We look forward to continuing our great work with Dame Vivienne in 2022.”

Vivienne worked for BP plc for 28 years, in Britain and continental Europe, in posts including Executive Vice President and Chief Executive of BP’s gas, power and renewable business and its alternative energy unit. As a member of the board of GSK and as chair at the Franklin, she has participated in a period of significant change and growth in the life sciences sector.

Vivienne became chair at the Franklin in 2018, when the Franklin was in its infancy. She has seen the institute through a period of significant growth, providing great leadership and helping articulate a clear vision for the Institute.

Vivienne was previously appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the 2016 New Year Honours for services to the UK Economy and Sustainability.