BOCA RATON, FL — May 5, 2025 — Brandon Hall Group™, the leading independent HCM research and analyst firm, today announced the launch of its 2025 Excellence in Action Awards program. This program builds upon Brandon Hall Group’s 30-year legacy as the leader in Human Capital Management Awards, with its flagship HCM Excellence Awards program widely recognized as the “Academy Awards of HCM.”
The Excellence in Action Awards celebrates companies that create exceptional workplace environments where employees thrive, contribute meaningfully, and feel valued. Applications open today, with submissions accepted through October 17, 2025.
“In today’s competitive talent landscape, organizations that actively listen to their employees and implement meaningful changes based on that feedback gain a significant competitive advantage,” said Mike Cooke, CEO of Brandon Hall Group™. “Our Excellence in Action Awards spotlight these forward-thinking organizations and provide a platform to share their innovative approaches with the broader business community.”
The program features 18 categories emphasizing authentic employee voices and experiences. The program features 18 categories:
- Employee Engagement: Creating dynamic, inclusive workplace cultures
- Attracting Top Talent: Excellence in recruitment practices
- Career Development: Supporting professional growth and advancement
- Change Readiness: Preparing workforce for organizational transformation
- Company Culture: Fostering positive workplace culture
- Corporate Social Responsibility: CSR initiatives rated by employees
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Creating inclusive workplaces
- Hybrid Work: Successful implementation of hybrid work environments
- Leadership: Outstanding leadership development initiatives
- Feedback and Recognition: Programs that acknowledge employee contributions
- Promotion and Succession: Development of future leaders and clear pathways
- Innovation and Creativity: Encouraging creative problem-solving
- Learning and Development: Employee-centered learning programs
- Organizational Teamwork: Fostering collaboration across functions
- Employer Branding: Aligning brand promise with employee experience
- Talent Mobility: Effective internal mobility programs
- Wellness: Commitment to employee health and wellbeing
- Technology Environment: Creating outstanding digital workplaces
“What makes this program unique is its focus on real employee feedback rather than just HR policies on paper,” said Rachel Cooke, COO and Awards Program Leader at Brandon Hall Group™. “We’re looking for organizations where employees genuinely feel the positive impact of initiatives designed to enhance their workplace experience. These awards celebrate companies that don’t just talk about being people-centric but actually deliver on that promise.”
The application process requires organizations to provide detailed information about their initiatives, measurable impact, relevant metrics, and employee testimonials. All entries will receive comprehensive feedback from the judges, providing valuable insights for continuous improvement.
Winners will be announced in December 2025 and celebrated at the HCM Excellence Conference in February 2026. Award recipients receive a digital badge, certificate, PR guide, and other recognition opportunities.
The Excellence in Action Awards is open to organizations of all sizes and industries worldwide. The entry fee is $575 USD per submission.
For more information, visit https://excellenceawards.brandonhall.com/excellence-in-action-awards/.
