Dame Irene Hays received the award in recognition of her business achievements, public service and commitment to social and economic inclusion.
She started her career in local government, where she rose to be chief executive of both Sunderland and South Tyneside councils.
Dame Irene then moved to the heart of government in London, holding senior civil service posts including director general for local government and regeneration and permanent secretary at the department for communities and local government.
She left the public sector in 2012 to join her husband John running Hays Travel.
