Creed’s people boss recognised in national award
Summary
Leading Gloucestershire firm Creed Foodservice finds itself once more on the red carpet with news that its director of human resources made the cut for the top 30 recognised HR professionals in a new national award. Martin Holmes , Director of People, found himself alongside HR figures at the helm of such entities as Matalan, Starbucks and Ringtons, all being recognised in the CIPD HR30 2026 Awards.
Details
On receiving the accolade, Mr Holmes said he was “pleased, proud and reflective,” adding, “It’s also a great reflection on all my colleagues and the business we have built together.” The awards ceremony, held last week at CIPD’s Festival of Work at Excel London, recognised HR professionals delivering ‘standout impact inside their organisations,’ according to its organiser, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
The latest annual list shone a spotlight on HR professionals who stood out for their significant and measurable difference over the past year.
Peter Cheese, CIPD’s CEO, said: “This year’s HR30 recognises a group of senior HR professionals who are not only championing the value of the people profession but delivering meaningful, measurable impact for their organisations and for their workforces.” CIPD’s verdict on Mr Holmes’ work stated: “Martin led Creed Foodservice through the complex integration of Total Foodservice following its acquisition by Kitwave.
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His empathetic leadership during this transformation reduced absence from 1.94% to 1.57% and improved employee turnover from 1.97% to 1.42%. “In 2025, Martin oversaw 6,066 hours of employee training – 50% above target. He also maintained an impressive mean gender pay gap of -5.12% in a male-dominated industry.
By securing board agreement for transparent merger communication a year in advance, he built unprecedented trust with employees and helped Creed maintain its status as a “Top 100 Company to Work For.” With the final 30 awardees spanning sectors including finance, technology, charity and the NHS, prominent retail names alongside Creed included Matalan chief people officer Aly Fadil, Ringtons’ head of people, Julija O’Keeffe, and Starbucks Coffee Company vice president partner for resources, Lisa Robbins.
Mr Cheese added: “As the world of work continues to shift at pace, the role of HR has never been more critical to organisational success. HR30 celebrates outstanding leadership across the profession, shining a light on those setting the direction and making a difference.
It also provides a platform to connect, learn and share insight.” The CIPD said the list was judged by an expert panel of senior people leaders and HR practitioners, with the final cohort selected for their work in driving change, championing innovation and shaping modern people practice.
Report source: Punchline Gloucester