On December 29, 2018, the UK Information Commissioner's Office announced that Elizabeth Denham, UK Information Commissioner, was awarded a CBE for her services to protecting information. Denham's award was announced in the United Kingdom's 2019 New Year's Honours list. This honor reflects Denham's achievements as the UK Information Commissioner and the enhanced leadership, visibility and impact that she has brought to the role and the Office.

The title of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire is bestowed by the Queen for prominent national or regional roles and to those making distinguished or notable contributions in their own specific field of activity.

In speaking about the award, Denham commented: "My hope is that this honour will assist in drawing attention to the importance of data protection to citizens, particularly this year, which has seen major reforms in data protection law with the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation – reforms to keep pace with changes in our digital age."

Previously, Denham received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her service as an Officer of the Legislature of British Columbia, Canada and was named most influential person in data-driven business in the 2018 edition of the DataIQ 100.

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