Judges, Judging Criteria & Feedback
Judges use a consistent and thoughtful scoring framework. Each submission is reviewed in full and scored across six key elements that we believe define an Inspiring Workplace:
- Purpose & Culture
- Leadership
- Wellbeing
- Employee Voice
- Employee Experience
- Inclusion & Belonging
These six key elements help us understand how your organisation supports, empowers and engages its people in practical and meaningful ways. Judges will look for clear evidence, real-world examples and measurable impact. Not just intentions, but outcomes.
To ensure fairness and transparency:
- We designed a single entry form that ensures all submissions are scored using the same structure.
- Judges provide constructive feedback for each entry, celebrating strengths and offering ideas for improvement.
- Glassdoor and engagement scores may be used as tie-breakers only and are reviewed separately by our team.
Full judging details, scoring breakdowns and entry tips are available in the downloadable Judge’s Guide below.
Download the Judges Guide and Entry Questions
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Why PeopleFirst Matters. Insights from our Judges
Independent Judges
Our panel of judges embodies a wealth of knowledge, expertise and dedication to cultivating workplaces that inspire. Spanning different industries, locations and organizations, our judges bring a variety of experiences to the table.
At the Inspiring Workplaces Awards, our judges generously volunteer their time and expertise, serving as pillars of independence and transparency throughout the judging process.
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Lainie Cassidy
Director - People and Inclusion
KPMG Australia
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Charlotte Anderson
Head of People Experience
Canva
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Pam Stevenson
Head of Talent & People
OIF Ventures
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Alana Bennett
CEO
Connected Experience
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Melanie Cole
Head of Strategy and Planning
Uber Carshare
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Nicole Karagiannis
Country Manager
My HR
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Matt McFarlane
Founder
FNDN
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James Comer
Regional CPO
Formerly Svitzer
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Kate Billing
Co-founder & Director
Leadership & Community
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Alex Pusenjak
Global VP, People & Culture
Fluent Commerce
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Wayne Schwass
CEO
Puka Up
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Meagan Michaels
Head of Employer Brand
Bupa