HR officer recognised with elite global honour

Dr Navina Evans, the chief executive of Health Education England, has welcomed a colleague’s recognition as a true leader in his field.

Thomas Simons is Chief Human Resources and Organisational Development Officer in NHS England’s People Directorate.

He has now been awarded Chartered Companion status by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) – one of only 47 people worldwide to have received the honour.

Dr Evans, who is also Chief Workforce Officer, NHS England, said:  “Under Tom’s leadership during COVID we saw the successful rolling out of the programme which led to 1.5 million staff being vaccinated. He also led the NHS’s first-ever comprehensive review of HR and OD services, and has played a vital role in establishing bespoke professional standards for NHS people professionals.

 “I am delighted he has received this thoroughly-deserved award.”

Thomas said: “I am humbled to have received such an honour. Working through the pandemic and helping steer the profession through a range of highly-complex people challenges has been one of the most difficult and rewarding times personally, and in my career.

“I’m proud to be part of our professional community at an extraordinary time for the service and when our contribution has been recognised so widely.”

CIPD Chartered Companion status is one of the highest HR honours in existence and is awarded to leaders with a proven track record within organisations who have demonstrated exceptional impact on the profession during their careers