Four AKG nominations have made the shortlist for this year’s ERSA Employability Awards, recognising the contribution of our colleagues, teams and partnerships to helping people into work.
The awards celebrate excellence across the UK employability sector, and with more than 330 entries received this year, competition has been particularly strong. Our finalists are:
Debbie Braid – Motivating Senior Leader
Debbie, our Chief Operating Officer, has been recognised for her leadership in improving Restart Scheme performance, supporting colleagues through change and helping build a stronger, more focused operation.
Delivery Partner Management Team – Team Behind the Scenes
Led by Steve Howe, the team has been shortlisted for its work supporting our delivery partners, particularly helping partners facing significant performance challenges to improve results through closer collaboration and practical support.
Abdul Kalam – Frontline Manager
Abdul, Business Manager at our Luton Restart Scheme site, has been recognised for his leadership in turning around a challenging operation, supporting his team and improving the experience of participants.
AKG and Beam – Innovative Employment Support
AKG has also been shortlisted alongside our delivery technology partner Beam, following a nomination submitted by Beam recognising our partnership and approach to employment support.
Celebrating the people behind the work
Being shortlisted across four categories is a welcome recognition of the different contributions that help AKG deliver its services, from frontline leadership and operational support to partnerships and innovation.
The winners will be announced on Wednesday 25 November 2026, at the ERSA Employability Awards dinner in London. You can see the full list of finalists on the ERSA website.
Good luck to all our finalists!
