Dids Macdonald OBE being recognised in the 2026 Women in Trade Association Powerlist
The Powerlist is a collaboration between the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Trade Association Forum (TAF), created to celebrate and recognise inspirational women working within the Association sector. This year’s list was compiled from more than 200 nominations, with a panel from TAF, FSB, CBI undertaking the difficult task of selecting the 100 women who make up the final Powerlist. See Powerlist here.
Nicola Bates, Chair of the Selection Panel and CEO of WineGB said,
We are at a unique point in UK history – just twenty years ago the make-up of such a list would not be as powerful, and if we reflect back to our parents’ generation there would barely be a cohort to celebrate. We are now at the happy period where the curation of a Powerlist of women in trade associations is difficult, not because it is hard to fill, but to filter to 100 women.
FSB Chief Executive Julie Lilley said,
Being part of this initiative to shine a spotlight on the invaluable contribution of women within the trade association sphere is incredibly rewarding. FSB is very proud to support WiTA 2026, with the Powerlist highlighting just some of the inspiring work that women in associations are doing every day to move towards a brighter future for all”
CBI Chief Executive Rain Newton-Smith said,
I’m delighted to recognise and celebrate the remarkable women featured in this year’s Powerlist. They represent the absolute best of trade associations – leaders who are driving progress within their sectors and making a meaningful impact across the wider economy. Trade associations play a vital role in shaping effective, evidence-based policy, and it is a privilege for the CBI to work alongside so many outstanding female trade association leaders who bring expertise, insight, and real-world experience to the policymaking process. It is a pleasure to continue our collaboration with TAF and FSB to share their stories and champion the difference they make every day.
ACID’s CEO Laura Newbold Breen said,
On International Women’s Day 2026, though it is absolutely no surprise to see Dids named on a list of Inspirational Women, it is fantastic that this accolade has been attributed to her in recognition of Dids’ unending contribution to the ACID team and the UK designer sector. The recent Design Consultation is a testament to Dids’ tireless commitment to campaigning on behalf of designers everywhere to ensure the IP landscape is improved and the best it can be for our UK creative industries. Congratulations from all of us at ACID!
This recognition is a fitting tribute to her decades of dedication to strengthening the UK’s design protection landscape and supporting the creative community.
Congratulations to Dids on this well-deserved honour.
