​Mike Turner CBE, chairman of GKN and Babcock International Group, has been named Industrialist of the Year by EEF, the manufacturers' organisation. The title was awarded at the EEF/Aldermore Future Manufacturing Awards - the manufacturing sector's annual 'oscars' - in London last night by Terry Scuoler, CEO of EEF.

The prestigious award was given in recognition of Mike's outstanding contribution as a highly successful business leader and manufacturing champion. As Chairman of GKN and Babcock International Group - two of the country's largest industrial and global players - he has been at the forefront of the revival in the UK's manufacturing sector.

Mike started his career in 1966 as an undergraduate commercial apprentice for Hawker Siddeley Aviation (later to become British Aerospace). The following years saw him taking ever-more senior roles including, in 1984, responsibility for the division manufacturing the iconic Harrier and Hawk aircraft.

In 1999 he was appointed Chief Operating Officer at BAE Systems. He then went on to be BAE's Chief Executive from 2002 to 2008.

He is past president of the Society of British Aerospace Companies and the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe. He is also a member of the UK Government's Apprenticeship Ambassadors Network. Mike received a CBE for services to the aerospace industry in 1999.

Mike Turner CBE, Chairman of GKN and Babcock International Group, says:"UK manufacturing continues to shine, demonstrating that it is at the heart of the UK's economy and central to our country's aspirations and ambitions. I am delighted that we also now have UK Government support for our key industries for the future through UK Industrial Strategies, with joint investment by industry and Government.

"This is in no small part down to the calibre and talent of our people, many of whom have inspired and enthused me throughout my own career. To be singled out for an award is an honour, but to receive this recognition from my peers within industry is even more rewarding."

Terry Scuoler, CEO of EEF, the manufacturers' organisation, says: "This recognition is justly-deserved. Mike's inspirational business leadership and his contribution as an industrialist to Britain's economic success are outstanding. The UK's manufacturing renaissance and the position we enjoy today as a global manufacturing nation would not be possible without the calibre, commitment and drive of leaders like Mike."

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