Laura Bounds MBE
A multi-award-winning entrepreneur who transformed struggling food brands into internationally successful businesses has been honoured at the inaugural University of Worcester Alumni Awards, winning the Innovation in Career Award.
Laura Bounds MBE, who studied BA Public Service Management and later completed a Master's degree in Sociology at the University of Worcester between 2005 and 2010, received the award in recognition of her innovative leadership and success in the food manufacturing sector.
As owner of Kent Crisps and Kentish Oils & Condiments, Laura has successfully transformed two failing businesses into profitable, award-winning brands renowned for both the quality of their products and entrepreneurship. Today, the companies export to more than 15 international markets with a strong track record in the travel sector, having secured major travel contracts with British Airways and Eurostar and most recently, United Airlines.
Among her many achievements, Laura was awarded an MBE in 2020 in recognition of her services to international business.
Reflecting on receiving the Innovation in Career Award from the University, Laura said: “I feel immensely proud to win this award. It’s an honour simply to be nominated, so to be recognised in this way is incredibly special.
“To have my journey and achievements recognised by the University of Worcester means a great deal to me. The university played such an important role in my development and gave me a foundation that has stayed with me throughout my career.”
Laura said her time at Worcester gave her the confidence and determination that would prove invaluable throughout her career.
“My time at Worcester played an incredibly important role in preparing me for both my career and life beyond university,” she said. “It provided a nurturing and supportive environment where I was able to grow in confidence. Being surrounded by like-minded, motivated people helped me become more ambitious, develop my passion and gave me the drive to pursue what I wanted to achieve.”
She also praised the support she received during her studies, including assistance that led to a diagnosis of dyslexia while completing her Master’s degree.
“Worcester gave me the space and encouragement to understand my strengths, develop confidence in my abilities and become the motivated and determined person I am today,” she said.
The Innovation in Career Award celebrates graduates who have pioneered new ideas, demonstrated entrepreneurial excellence and achieved significant success in their chosen profession.
The Alumni Awards were launched earlier this year to shine a spotlight on Worcester graduates who are making a difference locally, nationally and internationally across fields including healthcare, education, business, sport, sustainability and community leadership.
The celebration formed part of a remarkable week for the University, as thousands of graduates returned to Worcester to receive their degrees during the institution’s 80th anniversary year.