ALTRINCHAM, UK. October 1st, 2026 – HR apprentice Christopher Brennan of Altum HR has been recognised at this year’s CIPD People Management Awards, receiving a Highly Commended distinction in the Michael Kelly Outstanding Student category. The national awards bring together professionals from across HR, learning and development, and organisational development to recognise achievements, innovation and new approaches across the profession.
Christopher Brennan of Altum HR was named Highly Commended in the Michael Kelly Outstanding Student award, which attracts applicants from across the UK and the HR sector. The category is open to individuals who are studying towards, or have completed, a CIPD qualification since January 2021.
The Michael Kelly Outstanding Student award recognises how candidates have applied the knowledge and skills gained through their CIPD studies to deliver a meaningful and measurable improvement within their organisation.
Key evidence criteria for the award include individual contribution, initiation, implementation and evaluation of a significant and meaningful HR improvement project.
Christopher said: “Very much a pinch me moment, to even make the shortlist was a big achievement for myself but to then receive an acknowledgment was a huge shock. I am still very new to this industry so to be recognised by the CIPD was a very proud moment.”
On his role at Altum HR, Chris said: “I work for a business who allows me to be me, and I couldn’t ask for anything more. They support me, they have given me opportunities that I know I wouldn’t get elsewhere. I have learnt directly from a mentor, and I just hope I have made them proud as without them none of this would have happened.”
When he first joined the company, Christopher immediately stood out for his people skills, one of the most important qualities in HR. Recognising his aptitude and enthusiasm, Altum enrolled him directly onto a CIPD Level 5 course, a degree-level qualification, with the confidence that he could successfully balance the practical and academic demands of the programme.
His manager Tara Philips said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for Chris and really well deserved. He’s put in a huge amount of effort and has been a real asset from day one, such a positive example of what an apprentice can achieve.”
