Finalists announced
The Council is delighted to reveal its shortlist for The Highland Council Staff Recognition Awards 2026, which takes place at The Inverness Castle Experience on Thursday 3 December 2026.
The awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the excellence, dedication and achievements of individuals, teams and projects that make a difference across the Highlands every day.
The awards received around 270 nominations, including from members of the public.
Winners will be announced on the night.
Our finalists are …
Everyday excellence:
Margaret Ross, Assistant Housing Manager, Housing and Customer Services
Kieran Watts, Bikeability Scotland Coordinator/Road Safety Officer
Ian Cameron, Facilities Manager
Alison Rodwell, PSA, Kingussie High School
Going the extra mile
Mark Jones, Head Teacher, Inverness High School
Simon Pearse, Technical Officer, Environmental Health
John Morrision, Community Works Operative, Waste Operations North
Innovation and improvement
Web Redesign Project Team
Investors in People
Housing Repairs and Customer Experience Team
Tackling inequality and strengthening communities
Energy Efficient Homes Programme
Jolene Grant, Trainee Social Worker, Intervention and Prevention
Community Regeneration Funding Team
Team of the year
Corran Ferry Operating Team
Networks and Community Integrated Transport
Customer Contact Centre
Unlocking potential
All in Highlands, Employability
Gail Wilson, PE Teacher, Kinlochleven
Learning for Life Centre, Adult and Youth Team
Working in partnership
Inverness Production Kitchen
Community Engagement - Renewable Energy Social Value Charter Team
Housing Asset Investment Team
Sustainability and climate action
EV Infrastructure Contract Management Team
Waste Services
Minecraft Project - Wick and Thurso Youth Services
Rising star
Michael Silva, Graduate Engineer, Civil Engineer
Abbey Lawson, Roads Operative, Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey
Emily Willox, Trainee Housing Development Officer