FAQs
Whether you’re thinking about entering the HRi Awards, attending the HRi Community Celebration & Awards, or simply want to know more about this year’s event, we’ve brought together the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
From award categories and entry guidance to tickets, the Community Celebration and what to expect on the day, you’ll find everything you need here.
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please get in touch. We’ll be happy to help.
Who can enter the HRi Awards?
The HRi Awards are open to independent HR and People professionals, including independent HR consultants, fractional HR leaders, boutique consultancies and HR specialists.
Each award category has its own eligibility criteria, so we recommend reviewing the category descriptions before submitting your entry.
Do I need to be an HRi member to enter?
No. The HRi Awards are an opportunity to share your story and celebrate the contribution you’re making. You do not need to be an HRi member to submit an entry.
Whether you’re an independent HR consultant, fractional HR leader, boutique consultancy or specialist practitioner, the HRi Awards are an opportunity to share your story and celebrate the impact you’re making.
The HRi Awards are designed to celebrate the wider independent HR profession, bringing the community together to recognise achievement and share success.
Can I enter more than one award category?
Yes. If your work meets the criteria for more than one category, you’re welcome to submit entries for multiple award categories.
How are the winners chosen?
Every entry is assessed using a consistent judging framework to ensure a fair and transparent process. You can find out more about the judging framework on the HRi Awards page.
When do entries close?
Entries for the HRi Awards 2026 close on 20 September 2026.
You can find all key dates on the Timeline page.
Who are the HRi Community Celebration & Awards for?
The HRi Awards celebrate independent HR and People professionals at every stage of their journey.
Whether you’re running an established HR consultancy, working independently, leading a boutique practice, working as a fractional HR leader, or preparing to take the leap into independent practice, the HRi Awards and Community Celebration are an opportunity to celebrate the profession, recognise achievement and connect with fellow indies.
What's special about this year's event?
In 2026, HRi is bringing the community together in a different way.
Instead of the annual HR Indies Conference, we’re hosting the HRi Community Celebration & Awards — an evening dedicated to recognising achievement, celebrating the profession and reconnecting the independent HR community.
The HR Indies Conference is planned to return in 2027.
Why should I attend the HRi Community Celebration?
The HRi Community Celebration is an opportunity to come together with independent HR and People professionals from across the HRi community to celebrate the profession, reconnect with peers and hear the stories behind this year’s finalists and winners.
Whether you’ve entered the Awards, supported a colleague or simply want to reconnect with the community, the evening offers a chance to celebrate the profession, build new relationships and be inspired by the stories shaping independent HR.
Do I need to attend the Community Celebration if I'm shortlisted?
No. You don’t need to attend the Community Celebration if you’re shortlisted.
However, we’d love to celebrate with you in person. The HRi Community Celebration is where this year’s winners will be announced and provides an opportunity to recognise the achievements of all our finalists while bringing the HRi community together.
How do you support networking?
The Community Celebration has been designed to encourage meaningful conversations in a relaxed environment.
Whether you’re meeting fellow indies for the first time or reconnecting with familiar faces, there will be plenty of opportunities to build relationships across the HRi community.
What should I bring?
Just bring yourself and be ready to connect.
Business cards are always useful, but many attendees simply exchange LinkedIn details on the day.
Is there a code of conduct?
HRi is committed to creating a welcoming, respectful and inclusive environment for everyone attending the Community Celebration.
We ask all attendees to treat one another with professionalism and respect, helping to create a positive experience for the whole community.
By attending, you agree to uphold these values and help create a positive experience for everyone.
Where is the Community Celebration taking place?
The Community Celebration will take place in London. The venue is currently being confirmed.
We’ll publish full venue details, travel information and accessibility guidance as soon as they’re available.
How do I buy a ticket?
Tickets for the HRi Community Celebration will be available through our Tickets page once bookings open.
I’m interested in becoming a partner. Who should I contact?
We’re always keen to work with organisations that share our commitment to supporting independent HR professionals and championing the profession.
Please complete our partnership enquiry form or contact us at hello@hrindependents.co.uk to discuss partnership opportunities.
If you’ve got a question we haven’t answered here, reach out to us at hello@hrindependents.co.uk. We’re happy to help.