John O’Conner collects King’s Award for inclusive employment initiative
In recognition of its commitment to social mobility, inclusive employment and skills development, John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance Ltd has been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise.
One of 185 organisations to be given the accolade, John O’Conner was given the award within the Promoting Opportunity category.
The company has been pursuing its JOC Ascend – Elevate Your Potential, Embrace Your Future initiative, which provides pathways into employment, apprenticeships, skills training and career progression.
Matthew O’Conner, managing director of John O’Conner, says, “receiving a King’s Award for Promoting Opportunity is an incredibly proud moment for our business,” adding:
“We have always believed that everyone deserves the chance to build a meaningful career, regardless of their starting point. JOC Ascend reflects our values as a family company — investing in people, supporting communities and creating real pathways for individuals to progress and thrive. This Award, builds on the legacy that my father started, it belongs to our teams, our partners and every individual whose journey has helped shape our approach.”
In support of thousands of individuals from a wide range of disadvantaged groups, including those experiencing long-term unemployment, care leavers, ex-offenders, people with disabilities, lone parents, individuals recovering from addiction and military veterans, the initiative combines mentoring, apprenticeships, fairer recruitment practices, flexible working and strong partnerships.
Dura Composites also picks up a King’s Award for Enterprise in the Sustainability category, becoming the first Essex manufacturing business to have scooped a King’s Award in three different categories of the awards – International Trade, Innovation and Sustainability – following previous successes in 2017 (international Trade), 2020 (Innovation) and 2024 (Innovation).
Scottish horticultural developer and manufacturer behind Air-Pot, Caledonian Tree Company, also picks us a King’s Award, which is a “huge badge of honour,” says co-founder Jamie Single.