Steve Johnston and Liam McGee, joint founders of Kaiasm, a data technology company based in Frome, were presented in December with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise by Mrs Annie Maw, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset and Deputy Lieutenant John Haycock.
One of only eight awarded in the South West in 2020, the award for innovation recognises Kaiasm’s pioneering approach to data technology. The company helps clients – such as National Highways, the NHS, Screwfix and Wilko – to structure large, complex data sets so they can better serve their customers and other users.
Steve and Liam founded Kaiasm in 2011. The growing company currently employs 30 people, who work from the stunning Grange Offices or flexibly from their homes in Somerset and across the UK.
Liam said: “The ceremony was a big deal for us, because when the winners were announced in 2020, we couldn’t commemorate it due to COVID restrictions. So, it’s great that we managed to find a COVID compliant window when we could celebrate with a good handful of colleagues. This award is thanks to all of their hard work.”
The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is the most prestigious accolade for UK business. It is designed to recognise and encourage outstanding achievement in the fields of innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity. The awards are valid for five years, during which time winners can expect to benefit from worldwide recognition, increased commercial value and a boost to staff morale.
December’s award presentation followed a royal reception at Windsor Castle in November, when Steve took the opportunity to meet fellow inspiring winners from 2020 and 2021 and share a tipple with His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.
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