thebigword is proud to announce that its exceptional HR team has been shortlisted across three prestigious categories at the 2025 Yorkshire Excellence in HR Awards, a celebration of the region’s most inspiring and impactful people professionals.
The nominations highlight thebigword’s continued commitment to excellence in people management and workplace culture. The HR Team have been shortlisted in the following categories:
- Rising Star – Josie Belsham, People Associate
- People Leader of the Year – Chris Whiting, Global Head of People and Talent
- HR Team of the Year – Private Sector HR Team
Chris Whiting, Global Head of People and Talent, commented: “Being shortlisted for People Leader of the Year is an incredible honour, but what truly makes me proud is seeing our team recognised as finalists for HR Team of the Year at the 2025 Yorkshire Excellence in HR Awards. This achievement reflects the passion, resilience, and innovation that define our people. I’m equally thrilled to celebrate Josie Belsham’s nomination for Rising Talent in HR, a testament to the bright future of our profession. These accolades are not just awards; they’re recognition of the dedication and brilliance that drive us every day.”
These accolades reflect the dedication, innovation, and leadership demonstrated by the HR function at thebigword, which continues to drive positive change and foster a thriving workplace environment.
Celebrating emerging talent in HR, the Rising Star Award honours nominees for their career potential, meaningful contributions to the organisation, and innovative practices within the field of human resources.
On her nomination, Josie Belsham said: “Being shortlisted in the Rising Talent in HR category is an honour, but for the team to also be recognised in the HR Team of the Year – Private Sector category, means even more. Its a celebration of everything we have accomplished. Both nominations are a huge honour and they make me proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for all that’s still to come.”
The People Leader of the Year Award acknowledges visionary people leaders who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and have been instrumental in driving innovative and strategies within their organisations.
Senior People Advisor, Monaei DevianaHorne, stated: “Being nominated for HR Team of the Year at the 2025 Yorkshire Excellence in HR Awards is an incredible achievement and makes me proud to be part of such an amazing team! Special recognition for Chris and Josie for being nominated in their own categories, it is much deserved and proof of their talent and dedication and shows what makes our team so outstanding!”
Recognising achievements across multiple facets of HR, the HR Team of the Year Award highlights how the team’s work consistently reflects and reinforces thebigword’s values and strategic goals.
Global People Business Partner, Zoe Orson, said: “I’m genuinely delighted that our team has been named a finalist in the Yorkshire Excellence in HR Awards! It’s a proud moment and a fantastic recognition of the positive impact HR has across the business. Often working behind the scenes, it’s great to see our efforts acknowledged and celebrated, highlighting how HR plays a vital role in shaping culture, driving performance, and supporting our people every day.”
The Yorkshire HR Awards, shine a spotlight on the region’s most forward-thinking HR professionals and teams. thebigword is honoured to be recognised alongside other outstanding organisations and individuals who are shaping the future of work in Yorkshire.
The awards ceremony will take place later this year, and thebigword team is looking forward to celebrating the achievements of all finalists.
For more information about the awards, visit yorkshirehrawards.co.uk.
