Mike Turner, chairman of GKN plc and Babcock International Group, has been named Industrialist of the Year by the EEF. The award was given in recognition of his outstanding contribution as “a highly successful business leader and manufacturing champion”.

Mr Turner started his career in 1966 as an undergraduate commercial apprentice for Hawker Siddeley Aviation (later to become British Aerospace). In 1999, he was appointed Chief Operating Officer at BAE Systems; he went on to be the group’s chief executive from 2002 to 2008.

A past president of the Society of British Aerospace Companies and the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe, Mr Turner is also a member of the Government’s Apprenticeship Ambassadors Network. He received a CBE for services to the aerospace industry in 1999.

Mr Turner said: “UK manufacturing continues to shine, demonstrating that it is at the heart of the UK’s economy and central to our country’s aspirations and ambitions. I am delighted that we also now have Government support for our key industries for the future. This is in no small part down to the calibre and talent of our people, many of whom have inspired and enthused me throughout my own career. To be singled out for an award is an honour, but to receive this recognition from my peers within industry is even more rewarding.”

EEF CEO Terry Scuoler said: “This recognition is justly deserved. Mike’s inspirational business leadership and his contribution as an industrialist to Britain’s economic success are outstanding. The UK’s manufacturing renaissance and the position we enjoy today as a global manufacturing nation would not be possible without the calibre, commitment and drive of leaders like Mike.”