Best HR & People Leadership

HOW DO I ENTER?

Visit our 'How to Enter' page for our Items Checklist & Step-by-Step Guide. CLICK HERE.

Once you have created your PDF submission and you have all items in the Items Checklist, submit your entry via the Online Entry Form. CLICK HERE.

This award is open to any female HR or people-focused professional working in financial services who, over the past 18 months, has played a key leadership role in the development and implementation of HR strategies, talent initiatives, or workplace culture programmes within a financial institution or organisation. Entrants can be nominated by themselves or by a third party, but please ensure you have their permission to do so. Entry is by a 5-page A4 PDF submission; the judges will be looking for a clear plan and evidence that it is delivering on core objectives, paying attention to the criteria listed below.

  • Career Summary: Provide a succinct overview of their career and qualifications. Showcase their evolution as an HR or people leader within the financial services industry, including previous roles, specialisations, and any relevant certifications.
  • Contributions & Achievements: Summarise the contributions the person has made to advancing HR leadership—such as improving talent retention, leading DE&I initiatives, embedding performance culture, or responding to workforce challenges like hybrid working or wellbeing.
  • Sample Projects/Initiatives: Highlight any recent projects or initiatives they were heavily involved in over the past 18 months—in the context of the financial services industry—and quantify their success with measurable outcomes, such as improved employee engagement, reduced attrition, or talent acquisition milestones.
  • Leadership: Outline how the individual has displayed strong leadership qualities, excellent communication skills, commitment, and enthusiasm for the role. Showcase how they have influenced organisational culture, supported leadership development, or driven strategic people initiatives.
  • Supporting Facts & Statements: Include any other statements or facts that support the entry, including a supporting letter from a more senior figure within your own company or a client’s. Testimonials from colleagues, leadership teams, or external partners may also be included if relevant.