Hundreds of HR professionals gathered at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre yesterday to celebrate the most prestigious awards in the sector.
Hosted by Jason Mohammad, BBC One’s Final Score host, the cHeRries kicked off in style with entertainment from saxophonist Konrad Wiszniewski, who played throughout the drinks reception.
The award for Excellent HR Manager, sponsored by activpayroll, went to Lindsay Brooks of Worley with Alison Young of Wood being highly commended.
Aker Solutions was awarded for its Exceptional Employee Engagement with an award sponsored by CIPD.
Taking home Exemplary Employer of Choice, sponsored by Aberdeen University Business School, was Johnstons of Elgin while the Bilfinger Salamis UK Access Academy Team was celebrated for its Extraordinary HR Initiative, an award sponsored by CNOOC International.
Sarah Ross, of Worley was named Fantastic HR Advisor while Stacy Edghill of CV Aberdeen was presented with the Mike Reid Community Award.
This new award was to recognise someone in the field of HR who, outwith their day-to-day-job, continually commits their time and efforts to volunteering, fundraising or otherwise supporting good causes in their community.
Carol Nicholson of VSA was named Outstanding HR Director, an award sponsored by Wood.
Terrific Team of the Year, sponsored by CMS, was awarded to Robert Gordon University HR team, while Taqa’s HR team took home the gong for Tremendous Learning and Development, sponsored by Petrofac.
The Blossoming Award, sponsored by Robert Gordon University for an up-and-coming talent in the field, was awarded to Juliette McCheyne-Robb of Inspire (Partnership Through Life).
And John Stewart of SSE took home the Top Cherry award, sponsored by Mattioli Woods.
Andrew Kellock, deputy editor of The Press and Journal, opened the ceremony last night and congratulated everyone in the room for their hard work over the last year.
He said: “These awards – now in their 12th year – showcase the leading lights in the world of HR, training and recruitment across Scotland, and we’re here to recognise your outstanding work, whether that was carried out by individuals or teams, in organisations of all sizes and in all sectors.
“Congratulations to all our finalists, who can be proud to have been shortlisted and judged among the very best of their peers.
“I think you all deserve a big round of applause.”
Following the awards presentations entertainment was provided by The Brightside.
