A leading businesswoman who works with businesses of all sizes and sectors across Lancashire, supporting and advising them through a range of challenges, has been awarded an OBE.

Miranda Barker, 51, CEO of East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, has been recognised in the Queen’s Jubilee Honours list for Services to Business and to the Community in East Lancashire.

Speaking of her honour at receiving the accolade, Miranda said:

“I’m amazed to be honoured in this way.

“I work with the most exceptional group of people at the Chamber and in our partners, supporting our local businesses in every way we can, and showcasing Lancashire nationally at every opportunity.

“I thank them all for their support.”

Miranda grew up in Ilkley, and went to the Mount School, York. She has enjoyed a commendable career, running an environmental consulting SME for fifteen years before becoming a director of a Plc for four years. She has worked both in local and international business across a wide range of sectors, including energy, manufacturing, engineering, chemicals, pharma and FMCG.

Miranda was President of the local Wigan Chamber for a decade and Chair of the Wigan Economic Partnership before moving to East Lancashire to join the Chamber. She has led the Chamber in her current role of Chief Executive Officer since April 2017.

The position sees Miranda represent Lancashire businesses at the highest level, influencing policy change to support growth and facilitate success across the region.

In addition to her Chamber role, Miranda also sits at board level on the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) as well as leading RedCAT, a start-up business support initiative for businesses taking ‘green’ innovations to market scale.

Miranda said she was ‘blown away’ by the news, adding:

“Championing our superb industry leaders has always been my passion, and I hope this award helps drive recognition for them too.

“My mother is definitely going to need a hat!”

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