Chief Executive of the Design Council Minnie Moll has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from the University of Westminster in recognition of her significant contributions to design and innovation, along with her commitment to tackling the climate crisis through responsible business practices.
Moll is an influential leader in the fields of Design and Business and has made a profound impact as the driving force behind the Design for Planet mission, which aims to encourage design thinking to address urgent environmental challenges. Since taking the helm at the Design Council in 2021, she has steered the organisation’s efforts toward harnessing design to mitigate the climate crisis, a vision that underscores her belief in the power of design to inspire positive change. Her dedication to sustainability aligns closely with the University’s values, fostering potential collaborations in research and initiatives aimed at promoting environmental responsibility.
Beyond her role at the Design Council, Moll has an extensive background in business leadership, notably with the East of England Co-op, where she championed community-centred initiatives. Her work there earned the organisation multiple awards, including recognition from the Alzheimer’s Society. Her accomplishments in advertising, brand consultancy and retail highlight her versatility and innovative approach, making her a widely respected figure across industries.
She was also appointed by King Charles III, before his ascension to the throne, as Ambassador for Responsible Business in the East of England, where she has tirelessly advocated for ethical practices, supporting communities and helping sustainable business growth. Her leadership has also positioned London as the host city for the 2025 World Design Congress, focusing on the theme Design for Planet, with the University of Westminster set to play a pivotal role.
About the award Moll said: “I feel very humbled to have been given this award. I feel it really goes to all the amazing colleagues I have worked with over the years because all the things that I am most proud of have happened though teamwork.
“In my current role I may be leading a charge on Design for Planet but it is designers who create the impact. The role of design is so important as it literally shapes the world we live in. Right now we need designers, innovators and creative problem solvers to put their energy into addressing the climate and nature crisis. I feel hopeful and inspired by young people and I believe they can make a huge difference. Education is a privilege and Westminster and our other universities are so vital to stretch perspectives, and inspire the lifelong curiosity and fresh thinking we need.
“I truly appreciate this recognition from such a respected and inspiring university as Westminster. Go Westminster!”
Professor Anastasios Maragiannis, Associate Head of the College for External Relations, said: “Minnie Moll’s commitment to using design as a tool for meaningful, positive change aligns perfectly with the University’s mission of fostering sustainability and industry collaboration.”
Moll’s work directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and 13: Climate Action. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out how the University of Westminster is supporting Sustainable Development.
Find out about last summer’s Honorary Doctorates.
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