The 2027 Judges

The RAD Awards judges are crucial to making the RADS the independent and respected event it is. All of the winners and finalists are chosen independently by the panel.

The group, which is changed every year, is made up of employer branding, recruitment marketing and people communications experts from both in-house teams and agencies. We aim to build an inclusive panel and one that ensures all voices are represented and respected throughout the judging process. Since 1990 over 700 industry experts have participated in judging the RADS, so chances are you’ll know someone who’s done it! We believe all our judges will testify to the strength and integrity of the process. You can view the 2026 panel here.

Led by a Chair of Judges, who for 2027 is Tom Chesterton, Chief Executive and co-founder of Tonic, the team will meticulously examine each entry over a series of online and in-person judging sessions. Thank you to all our 2027 judges!

Tom Chesterton

Chair of Judges 2027, Chief Executive and co-founder of Tonic

The five judging principles

The judging panel are united in their aspiration to elevate and celebrate the pinnacle of creativity, effectiveness and innovation within the industry. They follow five guiding principles to ensure every decision made is anchored in integrity, expertise, and a deep appreciation for transformative work.

Click to read the five judging principles

1. Ensuring impartiality
Approaching every entry with an open mind, free from bias and prior affiliations. Ensuring a level playing field where all entries are judged solely on their merit and the value they bring to the industry.

2. Celebrating excellence
Recognising and celebrating the best work in employer branding, recruitment marketing, and people communications. Focusing on elevating projects that not only meet the highest standards of excellence but also set new benchmarks for the industry.

3. Rewarding innovation
Identifying and rewarding the creativity and innovation that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the field. Looking for pioneering ideas and practices that challenge the status quo and lead to significant advancements.

4. Embracing expertise
Harnessing the collective knowledge of our distinguished judging panel, trusting in the diversity of opinions and perspectives and knowing that each view enriches understanding and learning.

5. Upholding integrity
Maintaining the highest standards of honesty and ethical conduct. Evaluations should be constructive, fair, and always aimed at fostering the growth and improvement of the industry. Encouraging and supporting a diverse range of voices and perspectives, and challenging where necessary.

By following these principles, our panel affirm their role not only as a judges, but as a custodians of the industry’s future.