Pamela Maynard, Microsoft’s Chief AI Transformation Officer for Customer and Partner Solutions, has been named the 2024 Black British Business Person of the Year at the Black British Business Awards (BBBA).
Now in its 11th year, the award was presented by Cecil Peters, Head of Diversity and Inclusion at JPMorgan Chase, during a ceremony held at the InterContinental, Park Lane, London.
Ms. Maynard, a veteran business leader, joined Microsoft in October 2024 after a successful tenure as CEO of Avanade, a joint venture between Accenture and Microsoft. During her five years at the helm, Avanade experienced continuous growth and strengthened its position as a leader in digital innovation. Under her leadership, the company was named Microsoft’s Partner of the Year for a record 18th time in 2023, a testament to its strong client relationships and innovation in delivering digital solutions.
A hallmark of Maynard’s leadership has been her emphasis on fostering a “people first” culture. Her commitment to employee well-being, diversity and inclusion helped Avanade earn multiple “Best Places to Work” awards during her tenure. This focus on cultivating a positive work environment, where diverse perspectives are valued, is something Maynard views as central to her leadership philosophy.
“I have always believed that diversity of thought, background, and skill is not just important—it is essential,” Maynard said in a previous interview. “It drives innovation and allows us to support our clients in a way that is truly transformative.”
While at Avanade, Maynard also served as the executive sponsor of the company’s Technology for Social Good initiative. Through this program, Avanade provided technological expertise to nonprofit organizations, helping them digitally transform their operations and amplify their social impact. This initiative, which has supported nonprofits globally, has been a key part of Maynard’s legacy at the company.
At the BBBA ceremony, Maynard was one of 15 individuals recognized for their achievements across various sectors. The awards celebrate the contributions of Black British professionals and entrepreneurs, spotlighting those who are breaking barriers and setting new standards of excellence in business.
In her acceptance speech, Maynard addressed the importance of continuing to champion diversity and inclusion in all aspects of business and society.
“Together, we will continue to break down the barriers,” she said. “Together, we will continue to destroy the stereotypes. And together, we will create a future where diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but the very fabric of the world we want to live in.”
Maynard’s new role at Microsoft places her at the forefront of AI transformation, a critical area of focus for the tech giant as it seeks to empower its customers and partners through cutting-edge artificial intelligence solutions. She is expected to play a key role in shaping how Microsoft’s AI tools are used to drive business transformation across industries.
Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE, Chair and Executive Founder of the BBBA, praised Maynard for her leadership and the example she sets for women and people of color in the business world.
“The presence of strong, dynamic women like Pamela Maynard at the helm of major British businesses is both inspiring and essential,” Chandauka said. “She is leading the charge in AI innovation at one of the world’s most iconic technology companies, and her recognition as Business Person of the Year speaks to the impact she’s having on a global scale.”
As Microsoft continues to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, Maynard’s leadership will likely prove pivotal in ensuring that technology is used not only to drive business growth but also to foster greater inclusion and social good.
