The CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, has added a new category for organisations to showcase how they have optimised artificial intelligence at its annual HR in Ireland Awards for 2026.

The awards reflect the changing face of the people profession in Ireland and include an ‘AI, Technology and Workplace Transformation’ category for the first time. 

Researched carried out for CIPD has found that 58% of Irish workplaces have not provided clear plans on AI use for employees despite three in five (60%) reporting increased productivity because of AI.

“The potential and possibility for AI to enrich the world of work by freeing up humans to do higher value work is infinite. But, it needs to be done in an ethical, responsible and sustainable way to make sure the jobs that follow are good quality jobs," said Alison Hodgson, CIPD's market director in Ireland.

"There has been a somewhat organic approach to AI in the workplace until now and most businesses haven’t given employees a clear plan on using the technology. By taking an intentional approach to AI and clearly communicating with employees it can have the greatest impact.

"We want to recognise the Irish companies who are excelling in AI and workplace transformation which is why we’ve included it as a category in our HR in Ireland Awards for 2026.”

CIPD's HR in Ireland Awards take place on 13 February at the Mansion House in Dublin and prizes will be handed out across 14 categories. For the first time, national winners will advance to the CIPD People Management Awards in London. 

Additional categories for the HR in Ireland Awards this year include: reward and recognition strategy; global people strategy; future workforce strategy; and most inspirational and impactful leader.

Entries are now open and the closing date is 15 October 2025. Full details on the awards are available at cipd.org.ie.