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Small Business Recruiter - Big Steps Award
Recognising excellence in small business recruiter - big steps award.
Category: Employer Branding & Culture
Does your organisation lead in Small Business Recruiter - Big Steps Award?
Honouring a recruiter whose passion and commitment drive big steps in early STEM careers at a small organisation (≤ 500 employees).
Entry Questions:
1. What steps has this individual taken over the past 12 months to grow or strengthen early STEM careers, and what sets their approach apart?
2. How has this person tackled the unique challenges of STEM recruitment in a small business, and what bold methods have they introduced?
3. Share a specific success story or milestone that highlights their impact on recruitment and development.
4. How has their work strengthened the pipeline, improved visibility, or positively influenced culture around early careers?
In partnership with:
BAE Systems
At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world’s most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions.
We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 people in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.
It’s a culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and is a place where everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential, no matter what their background. We’re committed to nurturing talent and striving for excellence; empowering our people to drive innovation, make the right decisions and solve complex challenges.
With a huge range of opportunities, as an undergraduate or graduate, you’ll be given the responsibility to make a real impact, from day one. It’s a career you can be proud of, in a team that’s shaping a safer tomorrow.
Ready To Enter For The Small Business Recruiter - Big Steps Award
We’re searching for students who are making a difference through creativity, curiosity, and real-world STEM impact. This award celebrates undergraduates who apply science and technology to solve problems through research, projects, entrepreneurship, or community work.
More than just an award, this is a platform to showcase your potential. You’ll gain recognition, connect with leading employers, and share your vision for the future of STEM.
To enter, you must be:
– Studying in the UK (school/college or university)
– On track for a 2:1 or equivalent
What Could You Win?
National recognition, PR exposure, featured case study on our site, and access to the winners’ network.
Judging Process
Each student submission will be reviewed by a panel of industry experts and early career professionals.
Entries will be scored against key criteria: impact, innovation, inclusivity, and evidence of results. Finalists will be announced and invited to a celebration event, where the category winners will be revealed.
STEM students bring their curiosity, creativity, and lived experience to help assess which employers truly stand out to the next generation.
Student Voice
1
Early careers professionals use their recruitment expertise and deep understanding of the STEM landscape to spot genuine innovation and impact.
Early Career Peers
2
A powerhouse panel of respected STEM leaders brings strategic insight, sector knowledge, and a keen eye for excellence to the judging process.
Industry Experts
3
Ready To Enter?
Entries close 16 January 2026. Finalists announced February 2026. Ceremony in Spring 2026, London.