The Employer of the Year category at the EADT Business Awards 2024 will go to an employer who has had an impact on employees and the workplace. Nina Metson, managing director from award sponsor Waddington Brown, tells us what she brings to the judging table.

Why were you keen to get involved in the EADT Business Awards?  

I’ve seen the positive impact that these awards have among the business community in the East, and it was a natural fit for us as an HR recruitment and consultancy company to support the Employer of the Year category.

We want to encourage more entries from across the county, showcasing the brilliant work being done to create people-centric workplaces.

East Anglian Daily Times: Nina Metson, managing director from award sponsor Waddington BrownNina Metson, managing director from award sponsor Waddington Brown (Image: Waddington Brown)

What inspires you in business?

I believe that you don’t have to tread the same path as everyone else and your version of success looks different to someone else’s, and that’s absolutely okay.

I’m inspired by modern leadership that brings diverse talent together and nurtures individuality through values-led behaviours, not squashing everyone through the same process.

What do you bring to the judging process?

I’ve worked alongside some incredible leaders during my career, and I can spot those who truly believe in putting people at the heart of their business, and those who simply type the words on their website.

My work as an internal communicator has always been about closing the gap between what people say and what they actually do.

What have your previous experiences of judging been like?

This is my first time sitting on the other side of the judging table!

Having had the nerves of talking through many award entries in the past, I’m keen to bring lots of positivity and encourage entrants to showcase their achievements with confidence.

What advice would you give to a business that’s considering entering?

My advice is to be able to tell a story. You can recite facts and figures in an award entry, but the real power comes from sharing the impact.

The Employer of the Year category is a brilliant opportunity to look back at all the work you do for your people – I’ve no doubt there is a treasure trove of examples to draw from!

That’s what leaves the strongest impression in my mind, companies who can connect what they do with who they do it for and why.

The deadline for the EADT Business of the Year Awards 2024 is March 17. To find out more and make an entry, please visit eadtbusinessawards.co.uk

Award criteria

The Employer of the Year award recognises the evolution of employee engagement and its impact on the workplace.

It looks to showcase organisations that have evolved a culture and ethos that is people centric.

The judges will be looking for evidence showcasing how businesses have engaged with employees in three areas: recognition, innovation and progressive people strategies.

To find out more about all of this year's categories, please click here.