Gil Carter honoured as third recipient of prestigious Graham Kirkham Award

Gil Carter, a member of The Furniture Makers’ Company since 1996, has been awarded the 2026 Graham Kirkham Award in recognition of his outstanding commitment and service to the Company across three decades.

Established in 2024, The Graham Kirkham Award recognises individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the livery or charity and is named after Lord Graham Kirkham KCVO, founder of sofa retailer DFS and charity president of The Furniture Makers’ Company since 2016.

A liveryman of the Company since 1997, Gil joined the furniture industry in 1994, managing sector training projects for the British Furniture Manufacturers – now British Furniture Association – through a subsidiary, BFM Training Limited. His work supported the development of furniture-related qualifications in partnership with City & Guilds. He also chaired the British Furniture & Furnishings Council’s Training Working Party, helped establish a joint apprenticeship and training committee with the GMB union and managed the furniture sector’s Skill Build competition.

Gil was announced as the 2026 award-winner at The Furniture Makers’ Company’s annual Royal Charter Dinner, held at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London, on Thursday 22 October.

Jessica Alexander, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “While every member contributes in their own way, Gil truly stands out as someone who consistently goes above and beyond. For many years, he has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, supporting the communications committee. More recently, following the sad loss of Past Master Roger Richardson, Gil stepped into the important role of Company Archivist, a responsibility he has embraced with his customary dedication and care. Much of Gil’s invaluable work takes place quietly, away from the spotlight, but its impact is felt throughout the Company. He is the very definition of an unsung hero, and after 30 years of exceptional service, it is only fitting that we shine the spotlight firmly on him.”

Commenting on the award, Gil said: “I feel humbled and greatly honoured to have received this prestigious award. Over 30 years I have seen the Furniture Maker’s Company grow out of a small office in London’s West End to owning its own hall in a delightful part of the City of London, from where it embraces all those who work in and service the furniture industry, be they in manufacturing, retailing, education, transport or the myriad of other services. I have been fortunate to play a small part in this development together with the help of friends and colleagues, whom I thank sincerely and wish them well in the future. May the Furniture Makers flourish root and branch!”

The Graham Kirkham Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to supporting The Furniture Makers’ Company through fundraising, volunteering or other outstanding contributions that further the livery and charity’s mission.