Partner Article
Carnival-themed night crowns North East HR&D leaders
North East HR&D Awards
www.northeasthrdawards.co.uk
LinkedIn: North East HR&D Awards
Pictures: Steve Brock
The North East HR&D Awards returned in June to once again celebrate the sector’s amazing individuals and organisations. Delivered by N magazine publisher NET alongside North East Work & Talent, the ceremony showcased standout achievements across a wide range of categories.
They’re making all the right moves!
The stars of the North East’s HR and learning and development world have been honoured at a fun-filled carnival-themed event.
An audience of 450 packed into The Fed, in Gateshead, for the 2026 North East HR&D Awards.
And on an evening featuring samba rhythms, revelry and recognition across 12 hotly-contested categories, Newcastle International Airport secured the HR&D Team of the Year title, which was awarded in partnership with Womble Bond Dickinson.
Further award winners included:
- Excellence in Reward & Benefits, in partnership with North East Work & Talent – Percy Hedley Foundation
- Excellence in Supporting Armed Forces Talent, in partnership with Esh Group – Northumbrian Water
- Excellence in Organisational & People Development, in partnership with Believe Housing – Stadler Rail Service UK
- Excellence in Health & Wellbeing, in partnership with NPH Group – CF Fertilisers UK Ltd
- Excellence in People & Technology, in partnership with Motivait – Ringtons
- Excellence through Positive Impact, in partnership with Castle Peak Group – Northumbria University
- Excellence in Talent Attraction & Employer Brand, in partnership with Jackson Hogg – The Inn Collection Group
- Excellence in SME People Practices, in partnership with Recovery4Life – Clifford James
- Excellence in Leadership Development, in partnership with Hill Dickinson – Senstronics Ltd
- Excellence in Apprenticeships, in partnership with TDR Training Ltd – KAEFER UK&I
- Excellence in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, in partnership with Northumbrian Water – Darlington Building Society
Awards were judged by members of the North East Work & Talent advisory board, which reflects a cross-section of expertise and experience from regional organisations.