Gillian Drakeford MBE

Gillian Drakeford MBE is a global retail leader, chair, advisor and speaker. She has huge experience in bringing together people and systems to deliver success with a purpose, leading IKEA in the UK and Ireland, and in China, and driving the superbrand’s global retail experience programme.

Gillian is recognised for translating strategy into reality, through strong communication skills and storytelling, and shaping a strong organisational culture through connecting, engaging and mobilising people. She is a strong advocate for true meritocracy in the workplace, supporting true diversity and inclusion.

Gillian Drakeford has had extensive media experience and has a wide presence as a result of her high profile roles. She has been profiled in national newspapers such as The Guardian and The Independent, and featured frequently in business, finance and trade publications such as This is Money and Retail Gazette.

Gillian was awarded the MBE in the 2018 honours list for services to the economy. Today she chairs Back on Track, a Manchester based charity delivering education and training to adults with multiple disadvantages. And is a non-executive director of One Manchester Housing Association, Trust Alliance Group, and One+All, an employee owned, B. Corp accredited school uniform supplier.