UK’s New Year Honours 2026 celebrates leaders in healthcare, education and the arts
The UK’s New Year Honours List for 2026 has recognised leaders from business, education, healthcare, and the arts. Among those honoured are a new knight for motorsport, a Commander of the British Empire for NHS leadership, and multiple OBEs and MBEs for contributions across various sectors.
The list also includes figures from Manchester’s public sector, cyber security pioneers, and entrepreneurs supporting small businesses.
In the highest ranks, Sir Scott Dixon received a knighthood (KNZM) in New Zealand’s honours for his achievements in motorsport. In the UK, Sir Tristram Hunt was knighted for his work as director of the V&A museum, while Sir Steve Taylor, CEO of Cabot Learning Federation, was recognised for his impact on education. Richard Harpin, founder of HomeServe, also became a knight for his services to politics.
The NHS saw a major honour as Kathy Cowell OBE DL, Chair of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT), was named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her dedication to healthcare. Meanwhile, Manchester City Council leader Cllr Bev Craig received an OBE for her work in local government. Education and innovation leaders were also celebrated. Dr Jonathan Hague, an executive at Unilever and chair of Liverpool City Region Innovation Board, earned an OBE for his role in research and economic development. Julia Heap, principal of Hopwood Hall College, was awarded an OBE for her contributions to further education, while Mo Isap, CEO of IN4 Group, received the same honour for his work in education. The arts and creative industries were represented by Julia Fawcett, CEO of The Lowry, who was awarded an OBE for her service to the sector. In cyber security, Lorna Armitage and Dr Andrea Cullen, co-founders of Capslock, both received MBEs for their work in the field. Entrepreneurship and business support were also recognised. Piers Linney, known for his role on Dragons’ Den, was awarded an MBE for his contributions to small businesses, entrepreneurship, and social mobility. Henri Murison, chief executive of The Northern Powerhouse Partnership, received an MBE for his work in boosting the regional economy.
The honours reflect a wide range of achievements across public service, business, and the arts. Those recognised include long-serving NHS leaders, educators shaping future generations, and innovators driving economic growth. The awards highlight contributions that have made a measurable impact in their respective fields.
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