The founder of AJ Bell and CEO of Aviva have been recognised in the King’s New Years Honours list.
Amanda Blanc, the group CEO of Aviva, was made a Dame for services to business, gender equality and to net-zero.
Blanc became CEO of the insurer back in 2020, replacing Maurice Tulloch who stepped down after a year in the role.
When she took up the role, Blanc was a non-executive director at the firm, having joined the board at the start of 2020.
Prior to joining Aviva, she was chief executive of Zurich Insurance’s European, Middle East and Africa business but resigned after only eight months, although no reason was given for her departure.
She also previously ran Axa’s UK and Ireland business and has served as the chairwoman of the Association of British Insurers and president of the Chartered Insurance Institute.
Meanwhile, Andy Bell, was awarded a Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the financial sector.
Bell co-founded AJ Bell in 1995 with Nicholas Littlefair and held the role of CEO of AJ Bell for 27 years, before stepping down in 2022.
Former chancellor Sajid Javid, who still serves as MP for Bromsgrove, was knighted for political and public service, while former RBS chief executive Stephen Hester, who is currently chair of EasyJet was honoured for services to business and the economy.
Overall, there were more than 1,200 New Year's Honours handed out this year.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "The New Year Honours List recognises the exceptional achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion."
tara.o'connor@ft.com
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