Bentley Motors celebrates triple triumph with awards - for Sustainability, Inclusivity and Corporate Social Responsibility

2024-07-04

Among the awards, the luxury British marque collects Sustainability Initiative Award from Auto Trader. Bentley wins twice at the Queer Student Awards, firstly Employer of the Year and Degree Apprentice and BeProud Co-Chair, Benjamin McCormick, named Rising Star of the Year. Finally, Bentley receives gold award from the International CSR Awards.

Bentley Motors is pleased to announce its recent recognition across three prestigious awards, underscoring the company's commitment to inclusivity, corporate social responsibility and sustainability. Two awards were collected at the Queer Student Awards, where Bentley were named Employer of The Year, while one of its colleagues picked up Rising Star of the Year. Thirdly, Bentley’s Environmental Foundation was recognised with a Sustainability Initiative Award by Auto Trader and finally, Bentley won gold at the International CSR Excellence Awards.

Queer Student Awards (QSA)

The Queer Student Awards are the UK’s first annual student celebration focused on talented young LGBTQ+ people who are proudly leading in their lives and the communities around them. Picking up the Employer of the Year award, this accolade highlights Bentley’s proactive efforts in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, where all colleagues feel a sense of belonging. This includes support systems and employee resource groups with the colleague networks, as well as initiatives aimed at promoting equality and inclusivity across all levels of the organisation. The judges praised the fact that the DEI strategy has been embedded within the whole business and the aim of being the most diverse luxury car manufacturer.

Benjamin McCormick being awarded the title Rising Star of the Year recognises his remarkable impact and potential. As Co-Chair of the BeProud Network, Benjamin has been instrumental in engaging colleagues to help identify and remove barriers, provide peer support, and build networks of allies to raise awareness and support for LGBTQ+ topics at Bentley and in the local community.

Commenting on his achievement, Benjamin McCormick, said:

“It was a wonderful surprise to be nominated for this award celebrating some amazing LGBTQ+ young people whose impact on the world often goes unrecognised. As someone who grew up struggling to find relatable role models, it is heart-warming to be considered and see awards such as the QSA provide a platform for others like me, showing that it is possible to be queer and thrive in study, work, and life. “To win this award for me demonstrates that young queer people can make a positive impact on the world, even in organisations as prestigious and established as Bentley, for the future. If I can do it, I hope it gives courage for others to do the same.”

Auto Trader Awards

Bentley Motors, through the Bentley Environmental Foundation, received the Sustainability Initiative Award from Auto Trader, highlighting the company's significant efforts to tackle the climate crisis through a variety of global projects. The judges were impressed by the breadth of Bentley's sustainability initiatives.

Bentley’s collaboration with local charities and Non-Governmental Organisations extends the reach and impact of the luxury British marque’s sustainability efforts. The Bentley Environmental Foundation addresses the environmental and social impacts of climate change, working with global communities and charities to develop solutions for some of the most important challenges facing humanity today.

International CSR Excellence Awards

Finally, Bentley was honoured with a gold Award at the International CSR Excellence Awards for Community Commitment. This recognition was awarded for Bentley's new community investment strategy, Advancing Life Chances, which showcases the company's commitment to corporate social responsibility and advancing life chances in the community.

The International CSR Excellence Awards celebrate outstanding corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. Recognising organisations that demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to positive social and environmental impact, the awards highlight innovative projects and strategies that drive meaningful change.

Commenting on the collection of awards, Member of the Board for Human Resources at Bentley Motors, Karen Lange said:

"These awards are a reflection of the extraordinary dedication and talent of our colleagues at Bentley Motors, and their creativity and commitment to fostering an inclusive, engaged, and sustainable workplace. I am incredibly proud of our team's relentless pursuit of excellence and their passion for making a positive impact both within our company and in the wider community. “I would also like to personally acknowledge Benjamin’s deserved recognition. His leadership and passion as Co-Chair of the BeProud Network have significantly contributed to our mission of fostering a diverse and inclusive culture at Bentley. Benjamin's efforts exemplify the spirit of our Beyond100 strategy, driving us toward a future where inclusivity and innovation go hand-in-hand."