The NED Awards 2026

Celebrating two decades of strong governance, dedicated stewardship, and unwavering integrity.

In 2026, the NED Awards proudly mark twenty years of recognising exceptional leadership in the UK boardroom. Founded in 2006 by Peel Hunt and NEDA, the Non-Executive Director Awards were established to celebrate the individuals whose judgement, independence, and commitment play a vital role in the success of businesses and not-for-profit organisations across the country. Two decades on, the Awards remain the benchmark for excellence in non-executive leadership.

The NED Awards honour outstanding Non-Executive Directors from across the UK business and not-for-profit sectors—individuals who consistently demonstrate excellence in governance, strategic insight, and ethical leadership. From FTSE 100 companies to AIM-listed businesses, private equity-backed organisations, charities, and public service bodies, previous winners represent a diverse and inspiring community of leaders who help organisations navigate complexity, manage risk, and build long-term value.

These Awards shine a spotlight on those who bring far more than experience to the boardroom. Exceptional NEDs combine independence with influence, challenge with support, and rigour with humanity. They are trusted advisers to executive teams, guardians of good governance, and catalysts for thoughtful debate and positive change.

The 2026 NED Awards will recognise excellence across nine categories, reflecting the breadth and diversity of non-executive leadership across the UK:

• FTSE 100 Chair – Sponsored by Santander CIB
• FTSE 100 Non-Executive Director – Sponsored by Audeliss
• FTSE All Share – Sponsored by CMS
• FTSE AIM – Sponsored by Georgeson
• Private / Private Equity Backed – Sponsored by FGS Global
• Dame Helen Alexander ‘NED to Watch’ – Sponsored by Board Intelligence
• Not-for-Profit / Public Service Organisation – Sponsored by CBI
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Sponsored by A&M

Nominations for the 2026 NED Awards have now closed. The official shortlist will be announced on Sunday 8 February 2026, highlighting an exceptional group of individuals whose contributions exemplify the highest standards of governance and board leadership.

The Non-Executive Director Awards Ceremony will take place at Claridge’s, London, on Thursday 19 March 2026, bringing together leaders from across the UK to celebrate excellence in non-executive leadership.

The Awards are judged by a highly respected panel of senior board leaders and governance experts, including Graham Durgan, Chair of NEDA, whose insight and experience reflect NEDA’s long-standing commitment to exemplary governance standards. Read more about the full 2026 judging panel here. 

As an organisation that has been there from the start, NEDA is proud to continue supporting the NED Awards as they enter their third decade—championing the vital role Non-Executive Directors play in shaping resilient, responsible, and successful organisations across the UK.