Jo Stevens, Managing Director at Oxford Innovation Space, has been named Leader of the Year at the prestigious Institute of Economic Development (iED) Annual Awards 2025.
The awards, which were hosted at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester on 25th November following the iED Annual Conference, Good Growth: Driving the UK economy with investment in our regions and communities, celebrate achievers in the public and private sector through a series of individual, team and organisational categories.
This year saw a record-breaking number of entries, with almost 60 submissions received for seven award categories, and shortlisted nominations were assessed by an expert judging panel in September.
The Leader of the Year award recognises economic development professionals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and management in their role, and who motivate and inspire their team to achieve success through effective leadership.
The nomination for Jo described her as a “recognised and highly respected leader in the business and innovation support industry” and outlined how, drawing on her wealth of experience across a raft of inclusive economic development initiatives, she leads the UK’s and Ireland’s largest operator of innovation spaces that help transform their local economies.
iED Director and former Chair Bev Hurley CBE, who hosted the awards honouring achievements across the public and private sectors, said: “Our judges highlighted how Jo Stevens’ leadership has transformed Oxford Innovation Space into the UK’s largest innovation centre operator. Her people-first approach, national influence, and commitment to inclusive growth and sustainability make her a truly standout leader. Jo is a visionary whose impact spans business growth, team empowerment, and national innovation strategy, and her legacy is unquestionably one of purpose, inclusion, and transformation.”
Following the ceremony, Jo commented: “To receive the Leader of the Year award in the same month that I celebrate 25 years with Oxford Innovation Space is incredibly special. It has been a privilege to spend a quarter of a century working alongside talented colleagues, partners and communities who share a passion for driving inclusive economic growth through innovation.
“Over the years, I’ve seen first-hand how innovation centres can transform local economies – by nurturing entrepreneurs, supporting businesses to grow, and creating places where talent and opportunity thrive. I’m proud of what we have achieved together, and even more excited about what lies ahead as we continue to champion innovation, people and place across the UK and Ireland.
“This recognition reinforces the importance of purposeful leadership and the collective impact we can make when we collaborate to build thriving, innovative communities.”
iED Executive Director Nigel Wilcock added: “When we first created these awards during the Institute’s 40th anniversary celebrations, our ambition was clear: to recognise excellence – individuals, teams and organisations making a real difference in economic development across the UK. Every year since, the quality, innovation and commitment displayed has been extraordinary, and this year is no exception.
“Shortlisting the finalists was no easy task for our judges. My congratulations go to all those who were shortlisted, to each of our winners, and my sincere thanks to everyone who submitted entries. Their work showcases the diversity, creativity and impact of economic development in action – precisely what these awards exist to celebrate. It was wonderful to welcome so many familiar faces, along with new colleagues, to share in this special evening.”
The Institute of Economic Development is the UK’s leading independent professional body representing economic development and regeneration practitioners.
