EMQN CIC is proud to announce that it has been named a finalist in the 2026 UK & Ireland Inspiring Workplaces Awards, in association with Prezzee, placing the organisation among a prestigious group of employers recognised for putting people at the heart of their culture.
The Inspiring Workplaces Awards are recognised globally as the world’s leading PeopleFirst™ awards, celebrating organisations that go beyond traditional workplace metrics to build cultures of trust, purpose, inclusion and belonging. Being shortlisted brings EMQN one step closer to being officially named an Inspiring Workplace 2026.
This year’s UK & Ireland finalists include leading organisations such as Aldi UK, Lloyds Banking Group, Pan Macmillan, Tata Consultancy Services, and COS, reflecting a diverse mix of global brands, charities, and purpose‑driven organisations. EMQN is honoured to be recognised alongside such respected employers.
Recognising a PeopleFirst Culture
The Inspiring Workplaces Awards honour organisations that demonstrate a genuine commitment to their people. More than simply being a great place to work, Inspiring Workplaces empower individuals to thrive, fostering environments where wellbeing, inclusion and employee voice are embedded into everyday practice.
EMQN’s finalist status reflects its ongoing commitment to building a supportive, values‑led culture where people feel trusted, heard and connected to a shared purpose. This recognition highlights the organisation’s belief that strong, engaged teams are fundamental to delivering impact across the international genomics and laboratory quality community.
A Rigorous and Independent Judging Process
Organisations from around the world submit a single, standardised entry telling their PeopleFirst story. Submissions are assessed against six key elements considered essential to creating an Inspiring Workplace:
- Culture and Purpose
- Leadership
- Wellbeing
- Inclusion and Belonging
- Employee Voice
- Employee Experience
Entries are reviewed by an independent panel of expert judges using a clear and robust scorecard. Organisations are grouped by business size, ensuring fair comparison across sectors and structures.
From the shortlisted finalists, the highest‑ranked organisations will be announced as winners at an exclusive Gala Dinner in London on 21 May 2026.
Celebrating Inspiring Workplaces
Commenting on the announcement, Matt Manners, Founder of The Inspiring Workplaces Group, said:
“These finalists represent the very best of what PeopleFirst cultures can achieve. They are demonstrating that when organisations prioritise trust, inclusion, wellbeing and purpose, they don’t just support their people – they strengthen performance, resilience and long‑term impact. That is the future of work.”
Winners Announced in May 2026
The official Top 50 Inspiring Workplaces in the UK & Ireland, along with category and special recognition award winners, will be revealed at a gala dinner at the iconic Troxy, London, on 21 May 2026.