Talent optimisation was one of the key themes to emerge from the 11th HR Directors Business Summit held in Birmingham this week.

This conference and networking opportunity drew together a large audience of HR professionals keen to learn about and discuss some of the burning people management issues of the day. These issues included attracting talent in an increasingly globalised marketplace and how to foster innovation and use technology effectively.

The event culminated with the HR Distinction Awards ceremony, which recognised outstanding examples of HR in action. Among the winners were Wendy Cartwright, HR director for the Olympic Delivery Authority, who was awarded the HR Directors Distinction Award.

Bromford Group was singled out for its innovative use of social media in its recruitment campaign, while Nestlé UK drew attention for its commitment to talent management. In other categories, the Alzheimer’s Society won an award for its work on employee engagement, while DHL Express with NKD Learning were celebrated for their work on a global leadership development programme for 10,000 employees.

Other winners included Norbert Dentressangle UK, Birmingham City Council and Azzuri Communications.