Meet the finalists for the LEAD Network Awards 2026

Published on August 4, 2026

We are pleased to announce the finalists for the LEAD Network Awards 2026 , recognising the individuals, teams, Chapters and organisations advancing inclusion across our industry.

We extend our thanks to everyone who submitted a nomination and helped us recognise the people and organisations making a meaningful difference across the LEAD Network community.

Best in Class

Duracell
Beiersdorf
Danone
Bel Group

Chapter Achievement & Leadership

Sales Chapter
Ireland Chapter
Italy Chapter
Türkiye Chapter
UK Chapter

Excellence in Volunteer Service

Elaine Parr, IBM
Mathilde Aponte Faucherie, Danone
Elaine McCague, Kraft Heinz
Louise Harvey, Danone
Renee Griffin, PepsiCo

Inspirational Change Agent

Charlotte Exell, Morrisons
Anne Kremer, Bel Group
Avril Forbes, McCormick

Partner Ambassador Excellence

Boryana Kiteva, Prestige 96
Madeleine Forsch and Cathrin Kurz, Ingredion
Patricia Damiel and Funda Kalemci, NIQ
Zeljka Omazic, Duracell

Sharon Jeske ‘Doing Not Trying’ Award

Agnese Filippi, The Coca-Cola Company
Franca Mercurio, SC Johnson
Frouke Hakstege, FrieslandCampina

The winners will be selected by LEAD Network Advisory Board members Tanya Kopps (Ahold Delhaize), Victor Geus (Kenvue) and Beatriz Santos (Eroski). We sincerely thank them for contributing their time, expertise and thoughtful consideration to the judging process.

We also extend our thanks to everyone who submitted a nomination and helped us recognise the people and organisations making a meaningful difference across the LEAD Network community.

The winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony during the LEAD Network Annual Conference 2026, taking place on 6–7 October at the RDS in Dublin.

Congratulations to all our finalists!