Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber Statement on the Passing of Dame Julie Kenny DBE DL

We are profoundly saddened by the unexpected loss of Dame Julie Kenny DBE DL, a truly remarkable business leader, speaker, and advocate for Rotherham and the wider South Yorkshire region.

In 1998, Julie became the very first female president of Rotherham Chamber of Commerce. The transformational journey she began with Chamber was rewarded just a few years later when the Chamber was crowned British Chamber of the Year in 2005. Julie continued to play an active role in the Chamber, for many years, generously giving up her time to share her experiences and knowledge with others.

Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber said, “Julie will be remembered as a progressive visionary who brought out the very best in everyone she met. She will be fondly remembered by many in the Chamber community for her tireless work, drive and sheer will to succeed, often against all the odds. My thoughts and sympathies are with her family and loved ones during this sad time.

“From the very beginning of her business career, Julie didn’t just break through glass ceilings; she smashed them, often in her own inimitable way. She was proof that with drive, energy and self-belief that anything could be possible.

“Julie always brought out the best in the people she met. She was a source of inspiration, guidance and support, particularly when it came to nurturing the talents of women in business, always on hand to help those who followed in her footsteps and she will be greatly missed.

“Perhaps her true legacy isn’t just in the business success she achieved during her lifetime, nor in the good causes she passionately supported, or even in the transformational projects she delivered which played such key roles in reshaping South Yorkshire. She will be remembered for the lives she changed, the opportunities she created and the belief that anything can be possible, which she inspired in so many.”

Her leadership and dedication to making South Yorkshire a better place to live and work were inspirational. From founding Pyronix and growing it into a globally recognised company to her tireless efforts in preserving Wentworth Woodhouse, Dame Julie’s contributions to our region leave an enduring legacy in Rotherham and beyond.

Dame Julie’s passing is a profound loss to the Rotherham and wider South Yorkshire business community. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce