Organisations from construction, manufacturing and technology were honoured at the CIPD HR Awards for outstanding achievements in inclusion, transformation and people-led innovation
At a gala ceremony in Dublin’s Mansion House, the CIPD HR Awards in Ireland recognised a campaign challenging entrenched cultural norms in the construction sector.
The CIPD HR Awards celebrate innovation and excellence within the people profession across the private, public and voluntary sectors. This year’s winners reflect a strong focus on inclusion, alongside the responsible use of technology and large-scale organisational change.
John Sisk & Co was awarded the top prize in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion category for its It’s Only Banter workshops, which are designed to address inappropriate workplace behaviours. The initiative was completed by three-quarters of their employees.
Tayto Snacks received two awards on the night. The company won the Organisational Change and Transformation Initiative category for its once-in-a-generation relocation and upgrade of manufacturing and support functions. It was also named People Team of the Year, recognising its outstanding HR approach and its commitment to putting people at the heart of the business.
Galway-based TE Connectivity won a newly introduced award recognising the innovative use of artificial intelligence. The design and manufacturing company took a people-first approach to AI to improve workflows and engagement.
“This year’s winners demonstrate the powerful impact that people-focused leadership can have on performance, culture and long-term resilience.”
Commenting on the awards, Alison Hodgson highlighted the quality and diversity of this year’s entrants, spanning organisations of all sizes, as well as the public sector. She noted that many are embracing new technologies responsibly, tackling challenging workplace behaviours and managing complex transformation programmes.
Other award winners included Work Matters and Cluid Housing for their strategic partnership, Prosperous Financial for HR Excellence in a Small Business, and Martha Ryan, Director of Human Resources and ESG Lead at Boots, who was named Most Inspirational and Impactful Leader.
Notable public sector winners included a Department of Public Expenditure project supporting people returning to work after an absence of two years or more, the Civil Services ICT Apprenticeship, and An Garda Síochána’s trainee recruitment campaign.
For the first time, winners from the CIPD HR Awards in Ireland will advance to the CIPD People Management Awards in London – a fitting reflection of the growing international recognition of Irish excellence in people management.
Full details of all winners announced at the ceremony are available here.
Entries for the 2027 awards will open in September.
An overview of our sponsors and partners supporting the CIPD HR Awards in Ireland.
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