This award recognises companies who have noticeably accelerated their progress to be more inclusive over the previous year, whether from a standing start or by gathering momentum around a specific issue or dimension of diversity.

To be considered for this award, firms must show the ‘before’ and ‘after’, describe the motivation behind and details of the initiatives they have put in place and explain their planned next steps to build on the positive momentum.

The judges will be looking at the rate of change, rather than at the level – so this award is suitable for firms who are early in their journey, those who have been wrestling with a specific issue but now seeing progress or those at the ‘masterclass’ stage who have witnessed an encouraging breakthrough after years of little change.

To strengthen your entry please include feedback or endorsements (internal or external sources)

This award recognises firms or individuals who are helping to improve financial inclusion in the UK. The Government defines financial inclusion as individuals, regardless of their background or income, having access to useful and affordable financial products and services. Examples of areas of inclusion include financial education and numeracy, technology, commercial incentives and diversity and inclusion.

The judges will be interested in either specific campaigns or ongoing ways of doing business that are designed to broaden access to financial services and which are original and creative.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• The motivation behind the efforts

• The specific aspects of the campaign or approach

• The targets – and progress against them

• Plans for future evolution of the work

This award celebrates organisations that set the standard in good governance, strong management and operational transparency

This award recognises any organisation – within the investment and savings industry – that has developed an external campaign to successfully push environmental or social issues into the spotlight within financial services.

 We seek to recognise firms or campaign groups who have seen significant engagement with important issues which have otherwise been left unaddressed or underrepresented.

This award honours an individual demonstrating exceptional leadership in building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We seek to recognise those who have created a workplace that mirrors the communities they serve, fostering a culture where everyone feels valued, empowered, and can excel.

This award recognises companies with initiatives that encourage candidates from a genuinely diverse background – be that related to gender, socioeconomics, race and/or physical and neurological diversity – into their organisation. We seek to recognise firms which can not only encourage new and diverse talent into the industry, but ensure they continue to progress their careers at the firm over the medium-to-long term.

Candidates must demonstrate evidence of:

• Evidence of inclusive hiring within the organisation

• Clear efforts to help diverse individuals thrive

• Initiatives which transcend monitoring CVs – perhaps through visiting schools and colleges for example, or finding appropriate and effective ways to engage with a more diverse cohort of talent

• A culture which encourages employees to be their ‘authentic selves’ at work.

To strengthen your nomination, please provide testimonials from colleagues, managers, or clients highlighting the candidate’s contributions to DE&I.

This award recognises an inspiring individual who has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, role-modelling and advocacy in advancing diversity and inclusion within their organisation. We seek to recognise those who have served as inspiring role models, fostering a culture of belonging and equity.

Candidates must demonstrate evidence of: 

• A strong and consistent presence as a champion for DE&I within the organisation.

• A proven ability to guide and support the development of diverse talent.

• A significant impact on shifting organisational attitudes and behaviours towards DE&I.

• Demonstrated commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

• Active participation in DE&I initiatives within and outside the organisation.

Candidates should also exhibit the following qualities:

• Authenticity: A genuine passion for diversity and inclusion.

• Impactful communication: The ability to articulate the importance of D&I to a wide audience.

To strengthen your nomination, please provide testimonials from others highlighting the candidate’s role modelling and advocacy efforts.

This award recognises an individual, in the first few years of their finance career, who has made a significant and positive impact on their organisation or the industry through their commitment to diversity and inclusion. We seek to recognise those who have demonstrated exceptional contribution and driven tangible results in creating a more equitable workplace.

Candidates must demonstrate evidence of:

• Evidence of championing DE&I initiatives within the organisation.

• Measurable contributions to the organisation’s success through DE&I efforts.

• A proven ability to develop and implement innovative DE&I strategies.

• A focus on achieving tangible outcomes that advance DE&I goals.

• Effective partnership with colleagues to foster a more inclusive environment.

Candidates should also exhibit the following qualities:

• The ability to motivate and inspire others to embrace DE&I.

• A demonstrable impact on the organisation’s culture and practices.

To strengthen your nomination, please provide testimonials from others highlighting the candidate’s contributions to DE&I.