Drake & Morgan founder awarded Freedom of the City of London

Jillian MacLean MBE, CEO and founder of bar and restaurant group Drake & Morgan, has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London for her contribution to the hospitality industry.

The accolade, presented on Friday, 19 July, at Mansion House, is granted to individuals who have made remarkable impacts on the City of London and is one of the oldest surviving traditional ceremonies in existence. 

The Lord Mayor, Professor Michael Mainelli, submits nominations for outstanding contributions across a range of fields. MacLean's honours her visionary leadership and innovation within hospitality, specifically bars and restaurants within the City of London. The Lord Mayor commended her efforts in boosting the social and cultural life of the city, as well as her active participation in events aimed at encouraging the reopening of hospitality after the Covid-19 pandemic. 

'Championing positive change and innovation'

MacLean says of the award: "It's a great privilege to be awarded the Freedom of the City of London. Drake & Morgan's bar and restaurants are primarily located in the City and I'm incredibly proud of the contributions our company makes to this vibrant community. We look forward to continuing our support for the Square Mile, championing positive change and innovation along the way."

MacLean founded Drake & Morgan in 2008, and the group now comprises 18 bars and restaurants across London and Manchester, including The Folly, The Anthologist, Devonshire Terrace, The Drift, The Refinery and The Fable, all in the City of London. 

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