DE&S is extremely proud of all those recognised at the Women in Defence awards last night.

The prestigious awards are an annual celebration of the value women bring to the defence sector.

Lisa Hodge, DE&S Ships Support Senior Commercial Officer was named winner of the Women In Defence Inspirational Award for her work as the co-chair and co-founder of the Defence Dyslexia Network. Lisa has been critical to supporting many neurodiverse people throughout their dyslexic journey and ensuring they can thrive.

And recognised for her inspirational work to champion inclusivity, Jo Osburn-Hughes, Chief Operating Officer in the Land Domain was announced the winner of the Equity of Opportunity Award.

On her award, Jo, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled and honoured to have won this award. I am passionate about building an environment where everyone can bring their unique skills and experience to help protect our nation, and realise their full potential and thrive.”

Also shortlisted in this year’s award was Pauline Lewis Senior Inventory Manager in the DE&S Water Safety Equipment Team for her Outstanding Contribution to defence across her impressive 52 year career at the MOD.

DE&S CEO, Andy Start, said: “I’m immensely proud of all those recognised at last night’s Women In Defence Awards. It was a truly memorable evening, celebrating the exceptional contributions made by women across the defence sector. A special mention goes to DE&S’ Jo Osburn-Hughes, Pauline Lewis and Lisa Hodge for their unwavering dedication and inspiring efforts, helping to create an environment where we can all bring our whole selves to work; they are superb role models. A huge well done to everyone.”

Former DE&S colleagues were also recognised in this year’s Women in Defence awards including Lucy Crowther and Suzy Harris who received medals for being shortlisted, and Lt Col Kelly Tait who was crowned the winner of the Outstanding Contribution Award.

Women in Defence UK is an independent not-for-profit organisation, founded in 2011 by former Army officer Angela Owen OBE. With a network of more than 15,000 people and 40+ partners spanning every level of the defence sector, it aims to stimulate positive change across Defence.