The CIPD Awards 2024 celebrated the best in Welsh HR talent.
- A record number of entries demonstrated resilience amidst challenges.
- Over 80 finalists competed across nine categories with 14 organisations and nine individuals taking top honours.
- The awards acknowledged unique contributions to HR development and innovation.
- High-profile judges praised initiatives in diversity, wellbeing, and leadership.
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in Wales celebrated its seventh annual awards ceremony, recognising exceptional talent in HR and people development throughout the region. This year, the awards were held at the Cardiff City Stadium and attracted a record number of entries, underscoring the resilience and flexibility of HR teams during a challenging period marked by budget constraints and skills shortages.
In total, over 80 finalists across nine categories were honoured, with 14 organisations and nine individuals receiving the industry’s most coveted accolades. The awards recognised the remarkable work done by Welsh HR teams in navigating ongoing challenges in the sector. Among the winners were prominent organisations such as Wales and West Utilities, Pobl Group, Transport for Wales, Coleg y Cymoedd, Ogi, BBC Cymru Wales, and Resolution at Work.
Lesley Richards, head of the CIPD in Wales, expressed admiration for this year’s participants, stating, “The CIPD Awards in Wales are always a great opportunity for the excellent, innovative and sometimes life-changing work that goes on across the country to be officially recognised and celebrated.” The commitment to people development was particularly noteworthy in this year’s record-breaking submissions.
The awards featured several notable wins, such as Cathryn Sims and Phil Hawkins from Creditsafe, who excelled in the categories of Excellence in HR Leadership and Rising Star of the People Profession, respectively. Jessica Davies from the DVLA and Lisa Hand from Ogi were also highly commended in their respective categories.
Amy Foat-Smith was named Best Consultant, with her impactful work being recognised by the judges. Transport for Wales earned the accolade for Best Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative, celebrated for their collaboration with an advocacy group enhancing company culture and diversity.
Furthermore, the Best Wellbeing Initiative was awarded to Awen Cultural Trust and Pobl Group, while the Best In-House Team accolades were claimed by Ogi and Coleg y Cymoedd. BBC Wales Cymru was distinguished with the Best Learning and Development Initiative award for a programme that is now being implemented across other BBC regions.
Special awards were given to individuals for their exceptional contributions to HR in Wales. Caroline Belasco from Coastal Housing and Peter Kennedy, former HR director at the Welsh Government, were recognised for their outstanding contributions to the CIPD’s work. Paul Harris was honoured for his role in people development in Wales.
The winners were selected by a panel of esteemed judges, including Gayle Budden, Mark Hendy, Mark Stevenson, and Amanda Arrowsmith, among others. The judging panel was praised for their expertise and commitment to identifying excellence in HR practices.
The CIPD Awards 2024 in Wales highlighted the significant impact of HR professionals and their vital role in organisational success.
