Pauline Smith, Chief Executive at CXK, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List for services to education, skills and employability.
The honour recognises Pauline’s outstanding contribution to improving opportunities for young people and adults facing disadvantage, and her unwavering commitment to ensuring that those furthest from education, training and employment have access to the support they need to achieve their potential.
Since joining CXK in 2017, Pauline has led the charity through a period of significant growth and transformation, overseeing the delivery of services that help young people and adults make informed decisions about education, training and employment. Headquartered in Ashford, Kent, CXK works with schools, local authorities, employers and government departments across the South East, supporting individuals at key transition points in their lives.
Under Pauline’s leadership, CXK has strengthened its position as a leading provider of careers education, employability and targeted support services. The charity now delivers a diverse range of programmes, from careers guidance in schools and prisons to specialist support for people facing barriers to learning and work. In 2025/26, CXK supported more than 100,000 individuals through its services.
Alongside her leadership of CXK, Pauline is a respected voice within the education and employability sector, working with policymakers, government departments and partners to ensure services meet the needs of the communities they serve. Her advocacy has helped shape discussions around skills, employment and social mobility at both local and national level.
Pauline said: “It is such an honour to receive this award. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside passionate and talented colleagues who share a commitment to supporting people to realise their potential. This recognition is as much a reflection of their dedication as it is of my own work.
Throughout my career, I have been driven by a belief that everyone should have access to the education, skills and opportunities they need to move forward in life. While progress has been made, there is still much more to do to ensure that nobody is left behind.
I remain deeply committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the opportunities and support they need to thrive.”
Pauline will receive her MBE at an investiture ceremony later this year.
