CIPD People Management Awards is a annual industry award recognizing excellence in Human-Resources. Organized by CIPD (with Haymarket Media Group), it covers the Europe region. Established in 1996.
The CIPD People Management Awards are the annual awards of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, the UK-headquartered professional body for HR and people development, delivered in partnership with Haymarket Media Group. Returning for their 31st year in 2026, they recognise innovation and creativity in HR, learning and development, and organisational development, and are open to organisations of any size, sector or country — CIPD membership is not required. Entries are judged by a large panel of experienced practitioners, academics and senior people professionals, and shortlisted entrants must also present at a live panel judging stage.
The programme runs more than 20 categories aligned to the CIPD Profession Map, spanning employee experience, wellbeing, reward and recognition, people analytics, change management, inclusion and diversity, resourcing, talent management, SME people management, HR/L&D teams and consultancies, plus dedicated student and apprentice awards. Winners are announced at a black-tie ceremony attended by around 800 peers at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House on London's Park Lane each September. Because the awards carry the imprimatur of the chartered professional body itself, a win or shortlisting is one of the most CV-credible recognitions available to HR, L&D and OD practitioners.
The annual cycle gives entrants a clear runway: for 2026 the early-bird deadline was 26 March (saving £100 per entry) and the final deadline 30 April, with the ceremony on 24 September. Student and apprentice entries cost £50 + VAT and CIPD members receive discounted rates; standard fees are published on the awards site. Strong entries map a specific initiative to the CIPD Profession Map, evidence measurable business and people outcomes rather than activity, and prepare a confident live presentation for the shortlist stage.