With Gamescom now a memory, the editorial team at GamesIndustry.biz has turned its attention to the evaluation process for this year’s Best Places to Work Awards. While the primary award categories have already closed for submissions and will be judged on the basis of confidential employee surveys, we have decided to prolong the nomination window for the Special Awards. These ancillary categories celebrate superior performance in particular areas of workplace excellence and are open to any UK‑based company that operates within or alongside the games sector.
The new deadline for submitting nominations for the following special recognitions is midnight on Monday, 7 September. Unlike the flagship Best Places to Work categories, these awards focus on distinct themes and accept entries from a broader pool of candidates, including both internal staff and external observers. The judging panel will convene next week to assess the entries, with the results to be announced at the awards ceremony scheduled for 1 October.
The special award categories are: - **Diversity Award** – honoring organisations that have made measurable strides in fostering an inclusive environment that reflects a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. - **Green Award** – recognising companies that have implemented robust sustainability initiatives, reduced their carbon footprint, or otherwise contributed to environmental stewardship within the gaming industry. - **HR Hero Award** – celebrating human‑resources professionals or teams that have introduced innovative practices, improved employee engagement, or delivered exceptional support to staff.
- **Training and Development Award** – acknowledging firms that provide comprehensive learning opportunities, mentorship programmes, or career‑growth pathways that empower employees to develop new skills. - **Education Award** – highlighting organisations that actively support educational outreach, partnerships with academic institutions, or programmes that nurture the next generation of talent.
- **Corporate Social Responsibility Award** – rewarding businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical practices, community involvement, and socially responsible initiatives. - **Health and Well‑Being Award** – commending companies that prioritise mental and physical health, offering resources, policies, and a culture that promotes overall employee well‑being.
Nominations may be submitted by anyone with insight into the nominated company’s practices—whether that be a current employee, a former staff member, a partner organisation, or an industry observer. This inclusive approach ensures that the judging panel receives a well‑rounded view of each nominee’s achievements and impact. In addition to the awards, tickets remain available for the GamesIndustry.biz HR Summit, which will be held on the day preceding the awards ceremony.
This year’s summit centres on the evolving landscape of People & Work, exploring topics such as remote‑first strategies, diversity and inclusion frameworks, mental‑health support, and the future of talent acquisition in a rapidly changing industry. Attendees will have the chance to hear from leading experts, participate in interactive workshops, and network with peers who are shaping the next generation of workplace culture. To summarise, if your company—or a company you know—has demonstrated exemplary performance in any of the listed special categories, you still have time to put forward a nomination. The extended deadline gives you a final chance to ensure that outstanding contributions do not go unrecognised.
All submissions will be evaluated by a panel of seasoned professionals who understand the nuances of the gaming sector and the importance of fostering a supportive, innovative, and sustainable work environment. Remember, the awards ceremony on 1 October will bring together industry leaders, HR professionals, and award recipients to celebrate the best workplaces in gaming. It is also an excellent networking opportunity and a platform for sharing best practices across the sector. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this celebration of excellence—submit your nomination before the midnight deadline on 7 September and consider attending the HR Summit to gain insights that could help your organisation thrive in the years ahead.