HR Director of the Year Recognition Highlights Commitment to People Across Carpenters Group
At Carpenters Group, helping people build successful careers has long been an important part of how the business grows
Creating opportunities for colleagues to learn, develop and progress has always been central to that approach, supporting both individual success and the continued growth of the organisation.
That commitment to investing in people has recently been recognised, with Head of People, Sarah Pickerill, being named a HR Director of the Year winner at the inaugural North West & North Wales HR Director of the Year Awards 2026, hosted by Adaptable Recruitment in collaboration with Brabners and Rathbones. Sarah received the award in the £25m–£65m turnover category, recognising her leadership and the impact of the people strategy at Carpenters Group.
While the award is a significant achievement for Sarah, she is quick to emphasise that it is not something she views as an individual success. Instead, Sarah sees it as recognition of the work carried out by the wider People Team and the role colleagues across the business play in creating a positive workplace culture.
"It was a real surprise and a proud moment. It was great to be recognised amongst so many talented HR leaders, but for me the award also reflects the work of the wider People Team and the support of colleagues across the business."
The award shines a light on the growing importance of people-focused leadership within modern organisations. As businesses continue to evolve, attracting, retaining and developing talented people remains a key factor in long-term success. At Carpenters Group, the People Team plays an important role in supporting those ambitions while helping colleagues develop rewarding careers.
Looking Beyond Traditional HR
For Sarah, Human Resources has changed significantly over the years. The function is no longer solely associated with policies and procedures. Instead, it plays an active role in helping businesses prepare for the future while ensuring people remain at the centre of decision-making.
She believes the best HR teams understand what organisations are trying to achieve and work alongside leaders to support those goals. At the same time, they must remain focused on creating an environment where employees can thrive.
"Great HR understands both people and business. It should help create an environment where employees can perform at their best while supporting the organisation's long-term goals."
That balance between organisational priorities and employee experience is something Sarah feels strongly about. In her view, the two are rarely at odds with one another. When employees feel supported and given opportunities to develop, the business benefits too.
Creating Opportunities for Growth
One of the aspects of her role Sarah finds most rewarding is seeing colleagues progress throughout their careers.
Across Carpenters Group, many employees have gained qualifications and moved into more senior positions. Supporting that journey is a key part of what the People Team strives to achieve.
Sarah speaks passionately about helping people realise their potential and creating opportunities that might otherwise not have been available to them. Whether someone is beginning their career or looking to take the next step professionally, providing access to development remains a major focus.
"I'm most proud of the development opportunities we've created and the number of colleagues who have progressed their careers with us over the years."
That emphasis on development is not only beneficial for individuals. It also helps Carpenters Group build capability across the business and ensures future leaders can emerge from within the organisation.
Culture Is Built by Everyone
Although HR is often associated with workplace culture, Sarah is keen to challenge the idea that culture belongs to one department.
Instead, she believes culture is created through everyday experiences. The way colleagues interact with one another, the standards leaders set and the decisions made throughout the business all contribute to how people feel about their working environment.
The People Team supports that culture by helping ensure colleagues are treated fairly and have opportunities to share their views. Just as importantly, Sarah believes organisations must be prepared to act on feedback when it is received.
This commitment to listening has helped create an environment where colleagues feel valued and able to contribute to the future direction of the business.
Leading Through Change
Like many organisations, Carpenters Group has experienced growth and change in recent years. Supporting colleagues through those periods has reinforced the importance of clear communication and strong leadership.
Sarah believes honesty and consistency are essential qualities for anyone leading people. She also values approachability, creating an environment where colleagues feel comfortable raising concerns or asking for support when they need it.
"People respond best to leaders who are approachable, consistent and honest. I try to create an environment where people feel trusted and supported to do their jobs well."
She also describes listening as one of the most underrated leadership skills, believing that people are more likely to feel engaged when they know their views are being heard.
Moving Forward
As technology continues to influence the workplace, Sarah sees significant opportunities for HR teams to make better use of data and digital tools. However, she is clear that technology should enhance the employee experience rather than replace the human element.
"The most successful HR teams will combine technology, data and empathy to help people and businesses thrive."
She believes leadership will remain one of the most important factors in shaping workplace experiences, regardless of how technology develops. Supporting managers, helping employees reach their potential and ensuring people feel connected to the organisation will continue to be priorities.
For Sarah, what matters most is creating opportunities that improve people's experience at work and help them achieve their goals.
Sarah’s HR Director of the Year award is a worthy recognition of that commitment. It also highlights the contribution of the People Team and the importance Carpenters Group places on investing in its people. Ultimately, it is recognition of a culture that encourages development, values contribution and above all, supports colleagues throughout their careers.
