Charity boss receives OBE in King’s Birthday Honours

Heart of England chief executive Tina Costello (pictured) has received an OBE for her outstanding service to charities and voluntary organisations across the West Midlands and Warwickshire in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours.

Tina has been a leading figure across the Third Sector in the Midlands for over 25 years, overseeing approximately £60 million of investment that has greatly benefited local communities.

Since becoming chief executive in 2013, she has transformed the organisation and expanded reach and impact across the region.

Tina said: “It is an incredible honour to be awarded an OBE for my service to charities and the voluntary sector across West Midlands and Warwickshire.

“I am overwhelmed at receiving such prestigious recognition for leading a charity that I love and truly believe in.”

Under her leadership, the endowment has grown from £2 million to over £20 million, as well as growing their grant making to over £40.6 million through nearly 10,000 grants since 2013.

Chris West, chair of Trustees, said: “Tina’s tireless dedication, passion, and visionary leadership have transformed our Foundation and significantly impacted countless lives across the West Midlands and Warwickshire.

“We are all immensely proud of Tina and look forward to her continued leadership and inspiration.”