Excitement Builds for the Upcoming North East HR&D Awards in 2026

The North East HR&D Awards are set to return this June, honoring the remarkable organizations and individuals within the HR and learning and development community who are driving change across the region. Taking place at The Fed in Gateshead on Thursday, June 11, the awards promise to be a vibrant celebration of excellence and achievement.

A Celebration of Talent and Innovation

This year's event marks the 18th anniversary of the North East HR&D Awards, which will feature a wide array of categories aimed at recognizing the outstanding contributions of professionals in the field. Following last year's popular space-themed ceremony, anticipation is high for another memorable evening filled with inspiring stories of success.

The People Behind the Awards

Pete Mallon, creative and managing director of NET, expressed enthusiasm for the awards, highlighting their role in promoting significant achievements in the region. He states, "As an independent media organization committed to highlighting the inspiring stories of those shaping change in our region, the ceremony is a perfect match for us and a real highlight in our calendar."

Judging Panel and Nomination Process

The awards will be evaluated by a panel of experts from the North East Work & Talent advisory board, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the numerous nominations received. Joint chairs Elouise Leonard-Cross and Sarah Carnegie reiterated their excitement, noting the tremendous quality of nominations and the diverse range of talent represented.

Join the Celebration

With the support of various partners, including well-known local organizations such as Northumbrian Water and TDR Training, the 2026 North East HR&D Awards are expected to be an event not to be missed. Organizations across the region are encouraged to participate in this celebration of talent and share their best practices.

For those interested in attending, information regarding tickets and table reservations can be obtained by contacting Lesley Hampson or Dawn Owens via the provided email addresses. The North East HR&D Awards not only aim to celebrate individual and organizational achievements but also to inspire a collective sense of pride in the region's professional community.