London pub operator and founder of group Village People Clement Ogbonnaya was awarded an MBE for services to hospitality and business. He took to social media to outline how he was notified of the honour.
During the video shared on social, he said: “I’m just mad grateful and and proud. These sort of things are a catalyst to do more, for more change, for more impetus, be the change in the world you want to see.”
Illustrious history
Licensed Trade Charity (LTC) trustee Paul Hegarty was also awarded an MBE for charitable services to the hospitality sector.
The Society of Independent Brewers & Associates (SIBA) chief executive Andy Slee congratulated Hegarty, who is a non-exec director of the trade body.
Slee said: “Paul has a long and illustrious history in the beer and brewing industry and has through his work at the LTC increased the availability of support for members of the hospitality industry.”
The trade body boss also outlined how Hegarty had been instrumental in expanding support services for hospitality workers, highlighting a recent collaboration between SIBA and the LTC, which helps to make financial and mental health resources more accessible to brewers and their families.
Real privilege
“On behalf of SIBA, I’d like to congratulate him on being awarded a much-deserved MBE in this year’s New Year’s Honours,” Slee added.
Founder and CEO of Supersonic Inc Mark McCulloch was also honoured with an MBE for services to hospitality.
McCulloch said: “Hospitality is a people-first industry - full of heart, creativity and resilience.
“To play a part in helping the industry attract its next generation of talent during its toughest time was a real privilege.
“I’ve dedicated my career to telling its stories, championing its people and helping its businesses thrive regardless of size.
“This honour is a reflection of the incredible operators, leaders and marketers I’ve had the privilege to work with and is as much for them as it is for me.”
