HR in Wales Awards 2026 Shortlist Unveiled, Showcasing Top Talent in Human Resources
The highly anticipated shortlist for the second annual HR in Wales Awards has been officially announced, recognizing businesses and organizations across Wales for their exceptional human resources and people development practices. This prestigious event, set to celebrate the achievements of HR professionals throughout the region, will culminate in a special lunchtime ceremony on May 1st at the Marriott Hotel in Cardiff.
Building on a Successful Foundation
Launched in 2025 by Lesley Richards, an independent HR consultant and former head of the CIPD in Wales, the awards have garnered significant support from industry experts including Louise Price of Hugh James, Mera Mann from Human Resourcing, and Paul Harris of Skylite Associates. The initiative aims to highlight the vital role of HR in fostering organizational success and employee wellbeing.
This year's ceremony will be hosted by former Wales international rugby player Alex Cuthbert, adding a touch of sporting prestige to the proceedings. The event has seen a remarkable response, with 98 entries from businesses, teams, and individuals across nine distinct categories. From these submissions, a shortlist of 53 finalists has been selected to proceed to the final judging stage.
Recognizing Resilience and Innovation
The shortlist reflects the diverse achievements of organizations, both large and small, during a period marked by ongoing economic uncertainty, global challenges, and a rapidly evolving talent landscape. Finalists for the 2026 awards include notable names such as Atradius, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Bangor University, S4C, St John Ambulance Cymru, Welsh Local Government Association, Valleys to Coast, Freshwater, and last year's Learning and Development winner, Mrs Buckét Cleaning Services.
Commenting on the finalists, Lesley Richards expressed her pride in hosting the second HR in Wales Awards ceremony. "We are very proud to showcase those who demonstrate what great HR looks like in practice," she said. "The competition this year has been fierce, with an impressive number of entries in the Transformation and Change category in particular."
She added, "After what's been such a challenging year for so many businesses, it's incredible to see employers respond to economic uncertainty and turn it into an opportunity to strengthen their workforce and streamline operations. People are at the heart of what we do in HR and people development, and this shortlist truly reflects the life-changing work being done here in Wales."
Comprehensive List of Shortlisted Finalists
The shortlisted finalists span a wide range of categories, highlighting excellence in various aspects of human resources:
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Bangor University, Cardiff Community Housing Association, LBS Builders Merchants, Valleys to Coast, WJEC CBAC.
- Employee Engagement: Atradius, Cartrefi Cymru Cooperative, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Health Education and Improvement Wales, HPMA Cymru, Rocialle Healthcare.
- Learning and Development: Cardiff Community Housing Association, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, HPMA Cymru, S4C, Sweetmans and Partners with Sero, Siderise.
- Transformation and Change: Codi Group, Health Education and Improvement Wales, Mrs Buckét Cleaning Services, Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, S4C, St John Ambulance Cymru, WCVA.
- Talent Management: Bipsync, Freshwater, St John Ambulance Cymru, Welsh Local Government Association.
- Wellbeing: Codi Group, Creditsafe Business Solutions, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, First Choice Housing Association, Freshwater.
- Individual Impact: Sian Fisher - Confident Style Academy, Emma del Torto - Effective HRM, Universal Coaching Alliance Wales, Ann Rowley - Lighthouse HR, Gemma Littlejohns - Siderise, Rosie Sweetman - Sweetmans and Partners with Williams Medical Supplies, Dr Ioan Rees – SYCOL.
- Rising Star: Alex Davies - Siderise, Emily Summerhayes - Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Harry Underhill - Creditsafe, Jen Walters - Principality Building Society, Sadie Govier - Cardiff Airport, Sophie Cole - ACT Training, Tammi Jones - Effective HRM, Toni Louise Davies - HMPA Cymru / NHS Wales.
- Excellence in HR Leadership: Angela Overment - St John Ambulance Cymru, Angie Lewis - Welsh Ambulances Services Trust, Kate Ablett - Mrs Bucket, Nadine Beacon - S4C, Simon Argent - Vishay Newport.
Strong Support from Industry Partners
The HR in Wales Awards are supported by a robust network of sponsors and partners, including Hugh James, Vester Group, Human Resourcing, Lesley Richards Limited, Skylite Associates, HSF Health Plan, ALS/ACT, Monmouthshire Building Society, Welsh Government, Hoop Professional Services and HR, and the CIPD. This collaboration underscores the importance of recognizing and promoting excellence in the HR sector across Wales.
The awards ceremony promises to be a highlight of the business calendar, bringing together professionals from various industries to celebrate innovation, dedication, and impact in human resources and people development.
