Sustainability champion awarded Honorary Fellowship

Gemma Lacey is Director of Sustainability & Communications at Southern Co-op which operates Co-operative Funeralcare and Food branches across the south as well as Starbucks stores and Welcome franchises.

Gemma said: “I’ve had the opportunity to support the University's department of Business & 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.”

With over 25 years' experience in sustainability and a passion for championing responsible business, Gemma leads sustainability for Southern Co-op - a regional independent co-op.

Gemma has led the development of Southern Co-op’s ambitious science-based climate targets and delivery plan, along with the Society’s wider sustainability strategy, which was recently recognised with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development - one of the most prestigious awards for UK businesses.

As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, she is also responsible for the communications, brand, press and customer engagement functions. Prior to this she led sustainability for leading organisations, including John Lewis Partnership, KPMG and The Body Shop.

Gemma is a board director for community radio station Express FM based in the heart of Portsmouth and recently became a member of Solent University’s Department of Business and Law Business Advisory Board.