University of Bradford awards honorary doctorate to Dame Irene Hays

Dame Irene Hays, the owner and chair of Hays Travel, has been awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Bradford.

She received the recognition last week for her achievements in business, public service and her lifelong commitment to social and economic inclusion.

Dame Irene said: “It means a great deal. To be recognised outside my home region, in a place with such a strong reputation for equality and inclusion, is very special.”

Born and raised in the northeast, Dame Irene began her career in local government, eventually becoming chief executive of both Sunderland and South Tyneside councils.

Her career then took her to Whitehall, where she held senior civil service posts including director general for local government and regeneration, and later permanent secretary at the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Dame Irene left central government in 2012 to join her late husband John to run Hays Travel.

Helping to develop young people has been a top priority.

Dame Irene said: “I’ve always been passionate about giving young people opportunities to thrive. That’s been a golden thread through everything I’ve done.”

In a message to University of Bradford students, she said: “Every mistake is a learning experience.

“I’ve never been the brightest or the fastest, but I have been lucky to work with people who believed in me and I’m pretty good at asking questions when I don’t understand something.

“To the students and graduates of today, I would say if you’re curious and work hard, anything is possible.”