Last week, Projex Solutions was honoured to attend the IChemE Global Awards 2025, where we were named as a finalist in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award category, sponsored by Shell. Held at the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel, the ceremony brought together chemical, process and biochemical engineering professionals from around the world for a night of celebration, reflection and recognition.

Representing Projex Solutions on the evening were Managing Director Jamie Ashton and Business Development Manager Lynn O’Callaghan, who joined more than 100 finalists across 16 award categories. This year’s awards featured entries from over 15 countries, including the US, Germany, Denmark, Malaysia, Australia and New Zealand – showcasing the truly global reach and impact of chemical engineering.

Recognising global excellence in engineering

Now in its 31st year, the IChemE Global Awards are widely recognised as the most prestigious accolades in chemical engineering. Speaking at the event, IChemE President Raffaella Ocone opened the ceremony by acknowledging the impressive standard of this year’s submissions and the wide-ranging impact of the profession on society.

She emphasised the importance of attracting a more diverse range of talent into engineering and highlighted the role that organisations and individuals play in sharing and celebrating best practice.

“The breadth and diversity of the entries clearly demonstrate how chemical engineering touches so many areas of society. It is this richness, and the positive impact that our discipline makes, that we recognise tonight. We are honouring the very best in chemical, process, and biochemical engineering.” said Ocone.

Finalists in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion category

Projex Solutions was shortlisted for our continued work to embed inclusion across all areas of our business, from flexible working and fair recruitment to diverse leadership and community outreach. Among the six finalists in this category, Projex Solutions was the only owner‑managed business, standing alongside far larger multinational organisations including BakerHicks, Bouygues Energies & Services, bp International, Rolls‑Royce SMR, and UCL Biochemical Engineering.

The award was deservedly won by Rolls-Royce SMR, and we extend our warm congratulations to their team.

While we don’t operate at the same scale as these global organisations, this recognition shows that size does not define impact. We earned our place at the table through consistency, commitment and hard work, proving that an independent, owner‑led business can compete at the highest global level on merit alone.

For us, being named a finalist in a global competition of this calibre is an achievement we’re proud of. It reflects the values we live every day – creating a workplace where all individuals feel seen, supported and empowered to succeed. As our Business Development Manager Lynn O’Callaghan shared:

“Attending while pregnant made the experience even more personal. Supporting people through every stage of life isn’t just good practice – it’s what allows us all to show up as our best selves.”

Looking ahead

We thank the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) for organising such a meaningful and inspiring evening. The night celebrated not just technical excellence, but the human and societal impact of engineering across the globe.

At Projex Solutions, we remain committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion within our sector and beyond. Being recognised at this level only strengthens our resolve to keep moving forward, challenging industry norms, and helping shape a more inclusive future for engineering.