J Wray and Nephew Chairman Clement Hugh Lloyd “Jimmy” Lawrence and Joy Spence, master blender, say they are humbled to be among this year’s list of Jamaicans for national honours and awards.

Lawrence will receive the Order of Distinction, Officer Class (OD) “for invaluable contribution to the spirits industry in Jamaica and economic development”.

Spence, meanwhile, will receive the Order of Distinction, Commander Class (CD) “for contribution to the promotion of Jamaica’s rum industry and Brand Jamaica globally”.

The 2017 National Honours and Awards ceremony will be held on the lawns of King’s House on National Heroes’ Day, Monday October 16, 2017.

Commenting on the honour, Lawrence said: “I’m humbled to receive national recognition of this calibre. This has more to do with the unselfish support that I have been privileged to have from my family and work colleagues, than my own endeavours.”

Lawrence is also chairman of the J Wray and Nephew Foundation, which significantly contributes to the lives and development of people living within areas surrounding the company’s operations in Kingston at Spanish Town Road, New Yarmouth in Clarendon, and Appleton Estate in St Elizabeth.

He said the award provides motivation for greater contribution.

“It further inspires me to give back more to Jamaica, land we love,” he stated.

Lawrence, the company’s former managing director in charge of Jamaica and the Caribbean, was appointed chairman on February 24, 2016.

Wray and Nephew was acquired by Gruppo Campari at the end of 2012, and Lawrence was appointed head while the transition to the new owners was ongoing.

A statement from the company’s board at the time noted that during his tenure as managing director, Lawrence’s in-depth knowledge of Gruppo Campari’s activities in the region, as well as his leadership skills, were used to empower and astutely guide the company through the journey of transitioning.

Spence joined Appleton Estate as chief chemist in 1981, and eventually gained the title of master blender in 1997.

She was the first woman in the wines and spirits industry globally to earn the status of master blender. Today, Joy is counted amongst the world’s most influential master blenders.

Spence’s creations include Appleton Estate Reserve Jamaica Rum, Appleton Estate Extra 12 Year Old, Appleton Estate Master Blenders’ Legacy, the Appleton Estate 50 Year Old Jamaica Rum —Jamaica Independence Reserve Limited Edition Rum, and most recently JOY, a limited edition rum dedicated to her 35 years’ service, which was sold out in record time.

This is not the first time that the wines and spirits guru will be receiving national recognition.

In 2005, the Government of Jamaica awarded Spence the Order of Distinction, Officer Rank, for her service to the industry.

Reacting to this most recent national acknowledgement, Spence said it was unexpected, but a truly humbling experience.

“When I was informed of the award I was surprised, as I never expected or anticipated this. I am truly humbled,” she said.

“Those persons who saw it fit to nominate me must have seen some value in my work, and I thank them for their confidence and appreciation. Whatever I have done over these many years is as a result of the passion that I have for the rum industry and for Brand Jamaica.

“I would like to thank my family, colleagues, and other persons who supported me along the way,” she added.

Spence is a former head girl at Holy Childhood High School, where she served as president of the science club, 4H, Catholic, dance and netball clubs. She was also president of the Chemical Society and earned first class honours in chemistry from The University of the West Indies, Mona.

“I consider it a privilege to be able to contribute to my country’s economy in a meaningful way, and once again thanks to those who helped to make it happen,” she Spence.