King's College London

The awards recognise those who have gone above and beyond in their work – championing education, research, equality, diversity and inclusion, and community engagement.

Outstanding Commitment to Professional Service

Awarded to a member of professional services who has made exceptional contributions in their area of work, demonstrated collegiality, and gone ‘above and beyond’ to offer excellent advice and support.

Winner: Ashleigh Denny
Praised for her dedication, meticulous attention to detail and professionalism, Ashleigh’s nominators highlighted her ability to bring a palpable sense of calm, even in the most stressful periods of the academic calendar.

‘Ashleigh has been a revelation since joining the Department of Economics. In over a decade in academia, across multiple institutions, I can confidently say she is the most effective and impressive administrator I have worked with.’

Outstanding Contribution to Research

Recognises a member of staff with an outstanding record of research or scholarly productivity, high-quality publications, significant research funding, or other notable achievements.

Winner: Chia-Huei Wu
Chia-Huei was commended for his influential research in the field of HRM and Organisational Psychology, and for his efforts in building a culture of collaboration that makes the most of people’s strengths.

‘Chia-Huei’s research achievements, commitment to fostering collaboration, and vision for the department’s future demonstrate the kind of leadership that strengthens not only our current research but also our long-term research environment.’

Outstanding Contribution to Education

Awarded to an academic who has demonstrated innovation and/or inclusion in their teaching, making a major positive impact on learning.

Winner: Penny Simpson
Penny was praised for supporting student career initiatives, securing international accreditations, winning funding for pedagogic projects, leading a collaboration with the University of Sydney — all while earning excellent feedback from colleagues and students.

‘Penny has been a driving force for the MSc online programmes, and specifically the Global Human Resource Management programme.’

Catalyst for Change Award for Excellence in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Awarded to a member of staff who has shown exceptional commitment to ED&I and been a catalyst to a demonstrable change within the School, curricular or co-curricular activity or within wider society.

Winners: Alison McFarland & Minjie Gao
Alison and Minjie were recognised for championing inclusive teaching practices, and working closely with students and other stakeholders to ensure their voices and perspectives are heard.

‘They’ve both done serious, in depth work on decolonisation that’s been grounded in collaboration… This ongoing work supports one of the key priorities in our Athena Swan plan and is already having real impact.’

Team of the Year

Awarded to a team that has made a significant contribution to the School’s strategic priorities, external profile, or staff/student experience.

Winner: Events Team (Deborah Williams & Chloe Sara)
The Events Team won this title for their excellence, adaptability and unwavering support in delivering a wide range of events. From high-profile international conferences to targeted academic workshops, seminars, and book launches, their work has helped position King’s Business School as a hub for impactful dialogue and thought leadership.

‘They are always incredibly helpful, collaborative, and go above and beyond to make things work - even when timelines are tight, situations are challenging, or circumstances are less than ideal.’

Outstanding Support for Students

Recognises an individual or team who frequently goes the extra mile to support students in and/or outside of the classroom, demonstrating deep commitment to student experience and wellbeing.

Winner: Amber Reed
Amber played a pivotal role in coordinating and supporting the KBS20 Student Advisory Board, the Education Student Advisory Group (ESAG), and a wide range of student voice and engagement activities that have had a profound impact on the King's community.

‘She has ensured that student voices are not only heard but meaningfully embedded into decision-making processes.’

Outstanding Contribution to Impact, Engagement & Connectivity

Recognises engagement activity that has made an impactful contribution to the local, national or international community, including partnerships, outreach, and raising the School’s profile.

Winner: Amanda Jones
Amanda was recognised for embodying the spirit of this award through her remarkable commitment to public engagement. Her expertise in remote working and work-life balance has made her a sought-after academic voice during this period of workplace transformation.

'Amanda made a standout contribution to national public discourse this year through her central role in Payslip Britain, a major three-part documentary series on BBC Radio 4... giving it a reach and influence few academic engagement activities can match.'

Principles in Action Award

Awarded to a staff member who demonstrates exceptional collegiality, commitment and citizenship, contributing beyond their normal remit and exemplifying King’s Principles in Action (include, challenge, connect, support).

Winner: Alastair Gemmill

‘He embodies what it means to be a true team player and values-led leader, is always willing to get involved and put others first.’

Alastair’s leadership was widely commended for fostering a culture of belonging through regular engagement and thoughtful support of his colleagues’ development. Even while balancing a demanding dual role, he drove innovation with initiatives such as virtual reality teaching simulations and GradeScope for digital exam marking.

Outstanding Contribution to King’s Business School

Winner: Sally Everett
Sally was recognised for her exceptional service and leadership, with a lasting positive impact across education, engagement, and student experience.