Honoring the Champions of Career Development in the UK: The 2025 Awards Are Here!

Celebrating Career Development Professionals

Stourbridge, – February 06, 2025 – The UK Career Development Awards are here to recognize the vital role of career development professionals in shaping the futures of individuals and contributing to economic growth. David Morgan, Chief Executive of the Career Development Institute (CDI), emphasizes the importance of these professionals in his message as nominations open for the awards.

“Career development professionals have an unparalleled opportunity to transform lives—whether by guiding young people in schools and colleges or supporting adults through various services. Their work strengthens society and fuels the economy, making them essential architects of a brighter future for all,” explains Mr. Morgan.

#ValuingCareers: More Than Just an Award

The 2025 UK Career Development Awards are part of the #ValuingCareers campaign, which aims to highlight the crucial role of career development professionals. As the job market evolves, expert advice on navigating career paths becomes essential.

Key Statistics:

• Only 54% of UK adults feel positive about their future career prospects.
• 75% have career aspirations, but 80% anticipate barriers to achieving them.

This year’s awards theme is the Carnival of Careers, featuring categories such as:

• Careers Programme in Education and Non-Education Settings
• Outstanding Career Development Professionals
• Careers Provider of the Year
• Innovative Product, Resource or Technology
• Contribution to the Development of the Profession

The awards ceremony will be a luxurious celebration on June 17 at the Royal National Hotel in London.

Nominations Open

Nominations are now open and can be submitted until March 3 at 11:59 PM. You can nominate yourself or someone deserving of recognition.

Honoring Innovators and Change-makers

Last year’s winners showcased the transformative power of career development:

• Annmarie Wills won Public Sector Career Development Professional of the Year for her groundbreaking work in Swansea.
• Rebecca Auterson inspired students at Nottingham High School through her STEAM club, winning the Careers Programme Award.
• Deirdre Hughes OBE won the Technology in Career Development Award for her AI-powered chatbot, CiCi.
• Hays clinched the Innovative Employer Award for bridging skills gaps.

“These winners set a high bar for excellence, reminding us of the incredible potential this year’s nominees have to shape futures and inspire others,” said Mr. Morgan.