QQI named KeepWell Company of the Year Award (SME) 2026
Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) has been named KeepWell Company of the Year (SME) 2026, recognising its sustained commitment to employee wellbeing and inclusive workplace culture.
The award was announced at a ceremony on Thursday 7 May, where QQI was recognised for successfully embedding wellbeing into its organisational framework and day‑to‑day practices. QQI was shortlisted as a finalist in four categories at the event: Best in Class – Leadership, Inclusion and Belonging, Talent, Support and Development, and Company of the Year (SME), ultimately winning the overall Company of the Year (SME) award.
QQI has held the KeepWell Mark accreditation since 2019, and this latest recognition marks the second time the organisation has received the Company of the Year (SME) award, having first won the award in 2024. The achievement reflects QQI’s long‑term and continuous commitment to supporting staff wellbeing, inclusion and positive workplace culture.
Key initiatives highlighted through the assessment included QQI’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan, the work of its EDI Champions, Mental Health First Aid training for managers, and a comprehensive Wellbeing Week programme delivered for staff.
Speaking on the announcement, Susan Thompson, QQI’s Senior Manager Human and Physical Resources, said:
“We are delighted to receive the Keepwell Company of the Year award in the small and medium enterprise (SME) category. This recognition celebrates our organisation’s dedication to fostering a workplace where every team member feels supported and valued and illustrates our aspiration to be an employer of choice. This award highlights our ongoing commitment to prioritising well-being and it acknowledges the collective effort that has made this possible.”
She added “This award reflects the work and dedication of every employee in QQI. We are excited to continue this journey in building a positive and inclusive workplace for all.”
QQI remains committed to fostering a healthy, inclusive and supportive working environment, recognising that staff wellbeing is fundamental to organisational effectiveness and public service delivery.
Read more:
Business community marks 12th National Workplace Wellbeing Day
