This award celebrates organisations that represent and support professionals across diverse fields, helping them to thrive, develop and drive positive change in society. Each shortlisted body has shown dedication to advancing its profession, delivering value to members, and creating meaningful impact in its wider community.
Association of Business Mentors (ABM)
The Association of Business Mentors has worked to strengthen the role of professional mentoring as a driver of business growth and wellbeing. Over the past 15 months, ABM has redefined its strategy, introduced new membership pathways and professional standards, and launched dedicated training opportunities. It published the UK’s first research report on the impact of mentoring, raising awareness and influencing government policy.
Alongside this, ABM created new resources for members, including a podcast, a training centre, and a new website. These developments reflect its growing role in raising the profile of mentoring and supporting members across the UK.
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
The CIPD has guided its members through a time of major employment law reform while also enhancing its professional services. In 2024–25, the institute built strong links with policymakers and launched tools to help members track and prepare for legislative changes. It expanded support with new resources on AI and performance, introduced a successful mentoring service, and launched the HR People Pod, now ranked among the UK’s top business podcasts.
With strong membership renewal rates and global outreach programmes, the CIPD continues to represent, support and empower people professionals in a changing world of work.
Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)
As the home of aerospace in the UK, the Royal Aeronautical Society has focused on inspiring future talent, supporting members, and championing sustainability. Its outreach reached over 10,000 young people in the past year, while a new Next Generation Board is giving younger voices a say in shaping the sector. The Society advanced important discussions on aviation safety, career transitions, and sustainability, including work on contrail mitigation.
With membership, corporate partnerships and events all at record levels, RAeS continues to grow its influence both nationally and internationally, ensuring the aerospace community is well supported for the future.
Royal Entomological Society (RES)
The Royal Entomological Society has undergone a period of transformation, growing membership by almost 50% and expanding its global reach. Its publishing programme saw record submissions and downloads, while new partnerships with publishers have brought insect science to broader audiences through books for both academics and the public. RES also raised its profile through high-profile outreach, such as its Chelsea Flower Show garden, now a permanent educational site.
Alongside its core publishing and events, the Society contributes to conservation projects and policy work, highlighting the importance of insect science in addressing biodiversity and climate challenges.
STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners)
STEP has continued to expand its global influence, providing education and setting professional standards for those advising families across generations. Recent achievements include a rise in course enrolments, new international qualifications, and growing recognition of STEP membership by clients. The organisation has also increased its profile through campaigns on issues such as digital assets and financial abuse, reaching wide public and policy audiences. Member satisfaction has risen alongside new digital services, while STEP has made significant progress in diversity and inclusion.
These achievements demonstrate its commitment to strengthening the profession and delivering value worldwide.
European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) – Entered by We Are MCI
The European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons represents over 7,000 members across 130 countries, delivering education, advocacy and support to ophthalmologists. In 2024, ESCRS invested in hands-on surgical training, expanded its digital learning platforms, and launched a new surgical curriculum. Its inclusivity programmes, such as BOSS, and sustainability initiatives, including greener surgical practices, reflect its forward-looking vision. Tools like the open-access IOL Calculator are now widely used globally, while the annual Congress attracted record attendance.
By combining professional development, advocacy, inclusivity and sustainability, ESCRS continues to deliver impact for its members and the wider healthcare community.
Each shortlisted organisation in this category has shown how professional bodies can deliver real value to their members, while also influencing wider society. From advancing skills and research to promoting inclusion, sustainability and innovation, they highlight the vital role professional associations play in shaping industries and supporting people.
The Memcom Excellence Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday 25 September at the Royal Lancaster London.
Tickets are now available book awards now to celebrate with us in style.
