Louise Greenlees, TK Maxx owner TJX’s group president, was named Woman of the Year at the World Retail Congress in Barcelona.

Louise Greenlees

Louise Greenlees was named Woman of the Year at the World Retail Congress

Greenlees, a former managing director of TK Maxx and sister brand Homesense before being promoted to her current role last year, was recognised for her business achievements and work on inclusivity and social mobility.

WRC chair Ian McGarrigle said: “The Woman of the Year award is an important part of the World Retail Congress as it puts a well-deserved spotlight on outstanding female leaders who are helping to drive the industry forward but who also, by example, are serving as great role models to encourage greater numbers of future women leaders.”

Awards sponsor Altrua said: “The Woman of the Year award is calibrated on ’remarkability’. Louise Greenlees is an extraordinary leader. The business’ results and renowned culture is led by a role model who makes sure everyone and everything matters, from her teams to global concerns including inclusivity and social mobility. Louise delivers important initiatives with humility and passion.”

Greenlees is the first British woman to win the global award.