Graham Knowles awarded MBE

Chairman of the British Glass Foundation Graham Knowles has been recognised in the King’s 2025 New Year’s Honours List with an MBE for services to heritage.

The honour recognises his long-term philanthropism and community involvement and, particularly, his Chairmanship of the British Glass Foundation, which was established in 2009 to create a new museum to house the prestigious glass collection held at Broadfield House Glass Museum when it was set for closure. His tenacity and leadership kept the dream of a new museum alive and resulted in the opening of the new Stourbridge Glass Museum in 2022. The state-of-the-art building houses 10,000 pieces and holds regular exhibitions of contemporary glass too.

Commenting on the MBE, Graham said, “I’m honoured to be considered and it certainly wasn’t expected. We have a great team of trustees and volunteers who have made it all happen and I’m just part of that, really.”

Lynn Boleyn, secretary to the trustees of the British Glass Foundation, stated, “Graham has given many hours of voluntary leadership, as well as being unstinting with practical and financial help, all in addition to his own considerable business activities.

“His energy and enthusiasm have motivated and encouraged the rest of the team and the wider community. His open and inclusive style has minimised misunderstandings and his humour has often stopped the wheels coming off at crucial moments. He has dealt with around seven different leaders and cabinet members at Dudley Council and has shown great leadership and professionalism.  Without Graham’s dedication, drive and commitment to finding a new home for the world famous glass collections, they would probably have remained in storage never to have seen the light of day again. He has ensured that the 400-year glass making history of Stourbridge is preserved for many generations to come.

“On behalf of the trustees, ambassadors, volunteers and all associated with Stourbridge Glass Museum, we offer Graham Knowles MBE our heartiest congratulations, together with our assurance that it is a privilege to serve under his continuing stewardship.”

Aside from his work for the British Glass Foundation, Graham is CEO of the Hulbert Group and is well-known for his business connections throughout the Black Country and beyond.