KI is delighted to announce that its President and Managing Director, Jonathan Hindle, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 for his exceptional services to the furniture industry.
This prestigious recognition reflects Jonathan’s lifelong dedication and work across the sector. Throughout his career, he has been a driving force for growth, innovation, and education.
As the founder of the Design Guild Mark, Jonathan established a benchmark that recognises excellence in the design of furniture and furnishings for volume production. In his role as Chairman of The British Furniture Confederation (2015-2025), he consistently championed the industry's causes directly to the Government.
Alongside this, Jonathan has also dedicated countless hours to supporting the industry's workforce and advancing the prospects of young designers through mentoring, judging, and sponsoring different initiatives. KI annually sponsors the School Design Prize for the Livery’s New Furniture Makers Awards.
His Chairmanship of the Trustees of the Industry's Charity at The Furniture Makers Company and his work with various other charities and educational institutions makes Jonathan a very worthy recipient of this recognition.
"Jonathan’s appointment as an MBE is richly deserved and warmly celebrated throughout The Furniture Makers’ Company and the wider furnishings industry," says Jessica Alexander, Master of The Furniture Makers' Company.
"As a Past Master of the Company, founder of our Design Guild Mark, former chairman of the British Furniture Confederation for a decade, and now chairman of our Board of Trustees, Jonathan has devoted countless hours to championing excellence, supporting the British furniture industry and raising standards across the sector.
"His unwavering commitment, leadership and passion have made a lasting impact and will continue to benefit businesses, designers and future generations alike. We are delighted to see his exceptional contribution recognised with this well-deserved honour."
"I am deeply honoured and proud to receive this recognition," says Jonathan Hindle MBE: KI President and Managing Director. "While the MBE is awarded to me personally, it reflects the collective efforts and achievements of many people over the years.
"I have been fortunate to work alongside outstanding colleagues at KI, dedicated members of the Furniture Makers’ Company, and passionate individuals across our industry charities and educational organisations. Together, we have worked to support the furniture sector, nurture future talent, and champion the value of British design and manufacturing. This recognition belongs as much to them as it does to me."
