Mark Smith joins us this year as an ambassador, having been a long-term advocate of Women of the Year.

His career spans the public, private and higher education sectors and has a common theme: creating opportunity for all.

Mark’s multifaceted career is characterised by his ability to build a common purpose amongst partners, helping them support the communities they serve. His legacy extends beyond the projects he has led; it lies in his positive impact on the individuals and communities he has touched.

As an advocate for equality of opportunity, he continues to be a driving force for positive change, having just returned from a joint UN and Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office-backed mission to Pakistan to promote export growth by female-led businesses.