BT’s HR director has been awarded an OBE in the New Year’s honours list.
Caroline Waters, director of people and policy at the telecommunications giant, was awarded the title for her services to diversity and equal opportunities.
The Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) title is awarded each year for achievements made in any field that benefits the community.
Last year BT was named the most race-friendly organisation to work for by equality campaign group Race for Opportunity, and was also found to be one of the top family-friendly employers by campaign group Working Families.
BT’s HR function has also stepped up efforts over the past year to ensure that carers have access to the financial advice, support and networking opportunities they need, while flexible working policies have enabled 97% of new mothers to return to work – twice the national average.
Also honoured last week was Ellen Eaton, chair of the Local Government Association, who was made a Dame and a CBE for her services to local government.
John Whittaker, deputy director of employment policy at the Cabinet Office, also received a CBE, while Ann Shreeve, senior executive officer at Jobcentre Plus was given an MBE.
Mary Turner, president of the GMB union, also received an MBE for her services to trade unions.
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She told Personnel Today she hoped the honour would raise the profile of the work trade unions undertake.
She said: “I hope it will highlight the hard work trade unions do to give workers a voice. I think trade union work is very much undervalued.”
