Sustainability champion Gemma awarded honorary fellowship from Solent university

A Bognor businesswoman says she is "extremely proud" to have been awarded an honorary fellowship from Southampton's Solent university.

Gemma Lacey is director of sustainability and communications at Southern Co-op and has led the development of the society's science-based climate targets and delivery plan and its wider sustainability strategy.

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This was recently recognised with a Queen's award for enterprise in sustainable development - one of the most prestigious awards for UK businesses.

Gemma, who received the honour on July 11, has more than 25 years' experience in sustainability and also recently became a member of Solent university's department of business and law's business advisory board.

She said: "I've had the opportunity to support the university's department of Business and Law over the years and it has been a privilege to inspire and create our responsible and sustainable business leaders of tomorrow.

"I am extremely proud to receive this very special honour and to also join other business leaders on the university's business advisory board."

Southern Co-op operates Co-operative funeralcare and food branches across the south as well as Starbucks stores and Welcome franchises.

As a member of its executive leadership team, Gemma is also responsible for the communications, brand, press and customer engagement functions.

She is also board director for community radio station Express FM based in the heart of Portsmouth.

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