In March 2024, Joanna Kathryn Swash, Group CEO of Moneypenny was appointed an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Honours List for her services to the economy. She was awarded in acknowledgment of her commitment to Moneypenny's global expansion, the robust culture established by the founders, the exemplary efforts of the management team, and the employment opportunities generated in Wrexham, London, and the United States.
Joanna Knight, also known professionally as Joanna Kathryn Swash OBE, is a highly respected leader and Businesswoman. She is best known for her role as CEO of Moneypenny, a UK-based leading provider of answering services. Knight's candid and transparent approach has established her as a prominent voice in the media and for corporate change at the governmental level, serving on Boris Johnson's Prime Minister's Business Council.
Joanna Knight is also the chairperson of Wrexham Community and Culture Trust, Wrexham. She is also featured in several leadership books like ''Celebrity Service'' by Geoff Ramm, ''Employee Experience'' by Ben Whitter, and ''The Nowhere Office'' by Julia Hobsbawm. Joanna is a regular columnist for notable publications like Forbes and Elite Business Magazine. She is also a regular guest on BBC Radio 5 Live's program 'Wake Up to Money'. Joanna is frequently invited to share her insights at business conferences and industry forums. She is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, as well as for fostering leadership skills in women and young professionals.
Early Life and Career Path
Joanna Knight was born in Wrexham, Wales. She has done her schooling at Alun School, Mold, Flintshire. Joanna Knight commenced her career as the proprietor of a modest enterprise specializing in the sale of typewriter ribbons in the UK. The enterprise collapsed dramatically with the surge in popularity of laser printers. In 2005, she commenced her tenure at Moneypenny, a UK-based provider of answering services, in the capacity of a salesperson. Joanna ascended to the position of CEO of Moneypenny in 2018 after several years of service with the company.
Journey at Moneypenny
Moneypenny has experienced rapid expansion, successfully entered the market in the United States, obtained private equity from ECI Partners, and acquired three additional businesses in the United States: VoiceNation, Alphapage, and Sunshine Communications. This has resulted in the establishment of a state-of-the-art headquarters in Duluth, Atlanta. Knight has been the leading force behind these accomplishments.
One of Joanna’s most significant achievements at Moneypenny has been the expansion of its presence in the United States. She played a central role in establishing the company's office in Charleston, South Carolina, a move that marked Moneypenny's first major foray into international markets.
Through her strategic direction and focus on innovation, Joanna has grown Moneypenny from a UK-based business into an internationally recognized organization. Her efforts have not only revolutionized the industry but also contributed to defining new standards in workplace culture and customer experience.
Focus on Workplace Culture and Employee Well-Being
The leadership style that Knight employs is one that is founded on the power that people possess. As a result of her straightforward and honest approach, she has established herself as one of the most influential voices in the press and for corporate reform at the government level. She is currently employed by the Prime Minister's corporate Council, which is led by Boris Johnson. This strategy has also led to Moneypenny being consistently acknowledged as a Great Place to Work, which is a significant accomplishment.
She has been involved in various charitable initiatives and has encouraged Moneypenny employees to participate in community service projects, highlighting the company’s dedication to making a positive difference in society.
Joanna's leadership philosophy focuses on cultivating a healthy workplace culture, prioritizing employee satisfaction and well-being. At Moneypenny, she has advocated for the adoption of progressive policies aimed at fostering a good work-life balance, encompassing flexible working hours, mental health assistance, and professional development opportunities.
Moneypenny's esteemed corporate headquarters in Wrexham, Wales, is frequently recognized for its distinctive, employee-focused architecture. The office includes a treehouse meeting room, an onsite pub, and a pet-friendly policy—each element designed to foster a welcome and pleasurable work atmosphere. Joanna's commitment to her team's well-being has been important in Moneypenny's success, resulting in elevated employee retention rates and a perpetually cheerful work environment.
Recognitions and Honors
In recognition of her contributions, Joanna was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) for services to business and charity. This prestigious honour not only reflects her impact on the industry but also her commitment to social responsibility. She is also IOD Director of the Year 2022 for Corporate Responsibility, CEO of the Year by Management Today, Women to Watch 2021 by Cranfield School of Management, and Giving Something Back Award by The Sunday Times.
