Unique Group, global leaders in subsea technologies and engineering, is proud to announce that it has been shortlisted for three prestigious cHeRries Awards, recognising excellence in human resources, recruitment, and training across Scotland.
The nominations highlight the company’s commitment to people development, leadership, and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
The cHeRries Awards, organised by DC Thomson Events in association with Mattioli Woods, celebrate HR professionals and organisations that drive positive change within their businesses and communities. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at P&J Live in Aberdeen.
Unique Group has been recognised in three key categories. Fiona Reeks, vice president of human resources, has been shortlisted for HR Leader of the Year in recognition of her transformational leadership and strategic vision. Overseeing HR for a global workforce of 650 employees across 14 locations, Fiona has successfully aligned the company’s HR strategy with business growth, diversity, inclusion, and employee engagement. In the past year, she has introduced a global HR information system, enhanced employee performance initiatives, and spearheaded talent development programs, all of which have played a critical role in Unique Group achieving a 10% revenue increase in 2024.
The nomination for HR Professional of the Year acknowledges Debbie Middleton’s outstanding contributions to modernising HR policies, strengthening employee engagement, and enhancing talent retention at Unique Group. With over 20 years of experience, Debbie has been instrumental in leading HR transformation, integrating newly acquired businesses, and advocating for diversity and inclusion. Her ability to drive meaningful change, whether through launching employee well-being initiatives, refining benefits programs, or digitising HR processes, has significantly improved workplace culture and operational efficiency.
In addition, Bex Hislop has been recognised as a Rising Star of the Year, a testament to the impact she has made since joining Unique Group in October 2024. Despite being in the early stages of her HR career, Bex has already established herself as a key business partner, proactively managing HR operations for 120 employees across the UK and the Netherlands. Her contributions in employee relations, compliance, and onboarding, alongside her ability to navigate complex challenges with confidence and professionalism, have positioned her as a future leader in the industry.
These nominations reflect Unique Group’s dedicated commitment to investing in people, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, and driving CSR initiatives that benefit both employees and the wider community. The company places immense value on empowering talent, supporting well-being, and building a culture that encourages growth and innovation.
Debbie Middleton, human resource manager at Unique Group comments on the success, saying: “Being shortlisted for three cHeRries Awards is an incredible achievement and testament to the dedication of our HR team. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to building a workplace culture that drives both business success and employee satisfaction.”
The winners will be announced at the cHeRries Awards Ceremony on June 12, 2025, where Unique Group will join industry leaders in celebrating HR excellence. The company extends its congratulations to all nominees and looks forward to an evening of recognition and inspiration.