Large Organisation 

On 6th March 2025, the Northern PoWEr Women Awards will once again celebrate the individuals and organisations driving meaningful change across the North. As one of the most prestigious events championing gender equality, innovation, and social impact, the awards highlight those making a real difference in their industries and communities. This year, we honour the organisations nominated for the Large Organisation Award, recognising those that are making significant strides in accelerating gender equality and fostering inclusive workplaces. Through forward-thinking strategies in recruitment, development, and retention, these organisations champion diversity at every level, creating cultures where all individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. In 2024, Northumbrian Water Limited won the category, commended for its commitment to the local community, protecting the people and environment. 

Here’s a rundown of the 2025 Finalists: 

DWF Law 
 

DWF, a global provider of integrated legal and business services, is dedicated to accelerating gender equality and fostering an inclusive workplace. Recognised for the fifth consecutive year on The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality, DWF has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to creating equitable opportunities for all. The organisation has introduced innovative recruitment, development, and retention strategies, including Family Support Groups and menopause awareness initiatives, alongside leadership events for International Women’s Day. DWF’s recognition by Business in the Community (BITC) highlights its impactful efforts to eliminate gender disparities and embed inclusivity into its business strategy. By prioritising diversity at every level, DWF continues to set a benchmark for gender equality within the legal sector and beyond. 

IKEA 

IKEA has demonstrated a strong commitment to gender equality through a range of initiatives designed to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace. Their Gender Equality Strategy sets clear targets for increasing female representation in leadership, supported by mentorship and training programmes that empower women to progress in their careers. IKEA has also taken proactive steps to address the gender pay gap by ensuring pay transparency and promoting equitable compensation. Flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies further support employees in balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Beyond the workplace, IKEA collaborates with external organisations to champion gender equality and empower women in underrepresented groups. Through these efforts, IKEA continues to set an example for inclusive business practices and workplace equality. 

LNER 

LNER has a strong commitment to gender equality and inclusivity, ensuring all employees have the opportunity to succeed. By modernising its retail operations, LNER has introduced multiskilled station roles that empower employees, particularly those from underrepresented groups, by providing career growth opportunities and varied responsibilities. The shift towards Customer Information Centres enhances both the customer experience and employee visibility, while upskilling staff for diverse roles. LNER’s inclusive recruitment strategies ensure a workforce reflective of the communities it serves, with equal opportunities for progression regardless of background. Recognising the challenges of workplace transformation, LNER has prioritised employee well-being by implementing safety measures, mental health support, and flexible working arrangements. This proactive approach fosters an environment where all employees can thrive, reinforcing LNER’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and long-term workforce development. 

Royal London 

Royal London is dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion, with a strong focus on gender equality and career progression. Its Career Confidence programme empowers women and underrepresented colleagues through mentoring, networking, and skills development, helping them advance within the organisation. Leadership engagement is key, with reciprocal mentoring ensuring senior leaders gain valuable insights into diverse experiences, shaping more inclusive policies. By embedding inclusion into its business strategy, Royal London creates a supportive workplace where all employees can thrive, contribute, and grow. With a growing demand for its initiatives, the organisation continues to expand its efforts, ensuring long-term impact. Its commitment to inclusivity not only strengthens the internal culture but also enhances innovation and representation across the industry. 

Nuclear Waste Service 

Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) is leading the way in gender equality within the nuclear sector, achieving a near 50:50 gender balance, surpassing industry norms. With a female Board Chair, CEO, and strong female representation across leadership, NWS actively fosters inclusivity through fair recruitment, early career pipelines, and leadership training for women. Employee engagement scores reflect a culture where women feel supported and empowered, with flexible working enabling career progression. As proud corporate members of Women in Nuclear (WIN), NWS advocates for gender diversity within and beyond the sector. With no plans to stand still, NWS continues to drive meaningful change, ensuring women can thrive in its organisation and inspiring wider industry progress. 

px Group 

px Group is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, actively increasing the representation of women in leadership and engineering roles through initiatives like their Women’s Network and a company-wide culture change programme. Partnering with organisations such as the Power of Women campaign and the Primary School Ambassador Programme, they challenge gender stereotypes and promote STEM careers from an early age. Internally, px Group is enhancing its EDI strategy and inclusive leadership practices, ensuring a workplace where underrepresented groups can thrive. Beyond their organisation, they proudly sponsor the Tees Business Women Awards and TEDxTeessideWomen, amplifying diverse voices and driving meaningful change in the wider community. 

Nugent 

Nugent, a 143-year-old social care charity, provides vital services across the North West, supporting individuals from birth to end of life through care homes, community services, education, and adoption. With a strong culture of inclusivity, its values-driven approach ensures that equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are central to its operations, guided by targeted staff forums and an EDI Assembly. The charity has implemented anti-racism initiatives, unconscious bias training, and inclusive leadership development while also prioritising fair pay and employee well-being, becoming a Real Living Wage employer and signing the Dying to Work Charter. Nugent’s governance framework has transformed service quality, doubling satisfactory ratings across its services, and in 2023, it was awarded ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management system. With a 13% reduction in carbon footprint, enhanced employee engagement, and a strategic ESG plan aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, Nugent continues to drive positive change within the social care sector. 

Network Rail  

The Network Rail North West team has made remarkable strides in fostering gender equality and inclusivity, setting a benchmark for diversity within the traditionally male-dominated rail industry. Through strategic recruitment, mentorship, and professional development initiatives, they actively promote the career progression of women and underrepresented groups. Their commitment extends beyond the workplace, with community outreach programs, accessibility improvements at stations, and partnerships with schools to inspire future talent. Led by Route Director Phil James, their inclusive culture enhances team performance and innovation, while their dedication to social impact ensures meaningful contributions to local communities. Their achievements in driving diversity, inclusion, and social value make them a deserving recipient of the Large Organisation award and an inspiration for others. 

Bentley Motors