Champion of small business and Oxford Brookes University Professor awarded OBE

An Oxford Brookes University professor who has worked closely with government and policymakers to drive innovation and enterprise in the UK has been recognised in the New Year Honours list.

Professor Tim Vorley, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of Oxford Brookes Business School, has been awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to Enterprise, Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

As a dedicated and passionate researcher and educator, Tim has led a wide range of projects both in the UK and internationally, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses. 

Since 2015 Tim has led the Innovation Caucus, a project co-funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and Innovate UK that champions the role of social science in innovation to support economic growth. 

Through this he has led projects on topics such as the diversity of innovators, the impact of Covid-19 on innovative businesses, and the role of Further Education colleges in the innovation ecosystem. He will also be the Co-Director of the new Innovation & Research Caucus, funded by ESRC, Innovate UK and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), that will launch later in 2023.

Professor Vorley, said: “It was a surprise to be recognised in the New Year Honours List, and I am incredibly humbled. My ambition has always been to make a difference and I have been fortunate to work with so many great academics, policymakers and businesses throughout my career. It is these collaborations that inspire me and my work, and there is so much more to do! Education and research can be transformational, and I am fortunate that being an engaged academic enables me to drive change.”

Tim is a member of the ESRC’s Strategic Advisory Network and UKRI’s Talent and Skills Advisory Group, as well as chairing the Transforming Business through Social Science advisory board. Over the past four years he has also served as Vice Chair of the Small Business Charter which leads on the delivery of the Help to Grow programme for small business.

At Oxford Brookes University he is the Vice-Chancellor’s Group lead for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, working with colleagues to deliver ‘Enterprise Everywhere’. Tim is a champion of and advocate for enterprise, seeing enterprise at the heart of the Business School and the wider University. Working with colleagues he has introduced a programme of Visiting Industrial Fellows and Entrepreneurs in Residence to recognise and celebrate the contributions of business leaders and entrepreneurs.

Professor Alistair Fitt, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University, added: “Many congratulations to Professor Vorley for his richly deserved recognition in the New Year Honours.

"Tim is an inspirational educator who is absolutely passionate about supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses. His contribution to enterprise and innovation has been immense and this honour is thoroughly well deserved."