cHeRries Awards 2025: All the winners revealed
It was a celebration of excellence in the field of human resources, training and recruitment, enjoyed by all at the P&J Live.
The cHeRries Awards, in association with Mattioli Woods, were hosted by BBC radio presenter and TV host Jason Mohammad.
Around 650 people gathered for the night which got underway with a speech from Press & Journal and Evening Express editor Craig Walker before the prizegiving.
He said: 'We're here tonight to celebrate the great work being carried out in your profession.
'People leaders are always faced with challenges and a knowledgeable, understanding and supportive people team are exactly what we need.
'You problem solve, suggest different approaches to situations, ensure we are focused on learning and development and so much more – and we're extremely fortunate to have so many of you in this room tonight.'
After a tough judging process it was time for all the winners to be announced.
Winner: Ishbel Inkster, chief people officer, Orbex
With more than 25 years of consecutive service in HR, Ms Inkster has held positions across a number of businesses including Wood, Aberdeen Airport, Scottish Enterprise Grampian and GE Baker Hughes.
She's also very passionate about supporting others and has always been visible in setting up and promoting women's network groups, supporting internships and championing all equality, diversity and inclusion in her workplaces.
Collecting her award Ms Inkster said: 'I am delighted and very humbled.
'I've had the privilege of working for some great companies and great leaders in my HR career and also hope that I have inspired others.
'The people function is a critical business function and its so important that we recognise the work of everyone in HR.
'The cHeRries event is a brilliant way to celebrate HR and our achievements.'
Winner: Semco Martime UK
Winner: Flotation Energy
Winner: Fiona Reeks, Unique Group
Winner: Debbie Middleton, Unique Group
Winner: NHS 24 (Organisational Development, Leadership & Learning Team)
Winner: Andy Joss, Hunter Adams
Winner: Rebecca Cameron, Seaway 7
Winner: wood Early Careers Attraction Network (WECAN)
Winner: Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association
Entertainment throughout the evening was provided by Waterfront. There was also a silent disco.
Mattioli Woods employee benefits team director Sean Westwood said: 'Huge congratulations to all the finalists and winners.
'We're delighted to celebrate your successes with you at yet another amazing cHeRries award ceremony and we're excited to see what you go on to achieve next!'
Earlier in the day people gathered for the cHeRries conference, in association with Mattioli Woods.
Delegates took part in workshops, panel discussions and networking sessions, hearing from guest speakers around the topic of Shaping the future; awareness, empowerment and preparation for change.
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