Former Chair of Haberdashers’ Aske’s Trust awarded MBE

Former Chair of Haberdashers’ Aske’s Trust, Bruce Powell awarded the MBE for services to Education in the New Year’s Honours list.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Federation Trust was fortunate to have Bruce Powell steer a number of key changes and development for the Federation when he served as Chair of the Trust between September 2012 – September 2019. Bruce is a member of the Court of Assistants of the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers, the Trust’s chief benefactors.

During his tenure he oversaw major construction and refurbishment projects which included the opening of Borough Academy in 2019, the newest Federation school, situated on the site of the former Southwark Fire Station.

DCEO and Principal of Borough Academy, Declan Jones who worked with Bruce closely on the Borough development commented:

“We are thrilled that Bruce Powell has been recognised. Bruce brought vigour and steel to his role as Chair and was able to drive the Trust forward to the family of five primary, four secondary and a teaching school that we have today”

Whilst in post Bruce supported the recovery of Hatcham Temple Grove following a major fire in 2010, he was key to the opening of Hatcham Temple Grove Free School, brought Slade Green Temple Grove into the Trust and supported the development of a new sixth form at Crayford Academy.

Bruce retired as Haberdashers’ Aske’s Federation Trust in 2019, when Nick Scarles, Chief Financial Officer of the Grosvenor Estate took over as Chair of the Trust. In Bruce's career, he worked extensively in financial and operational management with information technology (IT) companies listed on the London Stockmarket. He is currently Chairman of ROKBOX, an award winning shipping and distribution company.

Bruce is married to Lizzie with 3 daughters and a son, and lives in Bentley.