New awards recognise 'internal talent' excellence

THE Internal Talent Awards, affectionately known as the ITAs, will be held virtually on Thursday November 19, 2020.

At the inaugural event, the ITAs will recognise and celebrate excellence in Internal Talent across individuals, teams and organisations. The concept of the ITAs came from TaPod co-hosts Lauren Sharp and Craig Watson, who inspire and entertain listeners during their weekly podcast which, they said, "shines a light, and a laugh, on the Australian Talent Acquisition (TA) community".

In a bid to see how their listenership were navigating their roles mid-pandemic, the duo circulated a survey to understand how TA would emerge post-Covid crisis. 

"Over 63 percent of respondents indicated that the role of Talent Acquisition will have increased responsibilities after the pandemic," director of Recstra and TaPod co-host, Craig Watson said. "And the industry deserves a platform to explore, embrace and celebrate these responsibilities."

Sharp People director and TaPod co-host, Lauren Sharp said, "The Internal Talent industry is filled with unheralded superstars. We are in the business of changing people’s lives with little fanfare or recognition.

"It’s time for us to acknowledge the star performers in our industry and highlight the initiatives that bring success to the Talent function."

The ITAs independent judging panel includes HR Tech Market director Rachel Hill, Avature ANZ director Adam Walker and major sponsor TQ Solutions director Gareth Flynn.

Nominations are open and will close on October 16.

TQ Solutions is the major sponsor for 2020 and other award sponsors include Talent Table, Oncore Services, CV Check, Alcami Interactive, Matchd and TaPod.

The ITAs will bestow the following awards at a Gala Virtual Ceremony on Thursday, November 19:

• Talent Team of the Year.
• Talent Professional of the Year.
• Talent Leader of the Year.
• Excellence in Candidate Experience.
• Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion.
• Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility.
• Excellence in Employer Branding.

Further information on the nomination process and how to secure a ticket to the Gala Virtual Ceremony can be found at www.internaltalentawards.com

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