Tara Mason has been announced as a finalist for the Learning, Skills and Development Award at the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, sponsored by Keele University.

Tara joined Eden Pet Foods and quickly established herself as a different kind of HR practitioner, one willing to challenge senior leadership, overhaul processes nobody had asked her to fix, and handle complex disciplinary matters with a consistency the business had previously struggled to achieve. She completed her HR Level 3 programme with DBC Training at distinction level and was subsequently nominated as apprentice of the year by the provider.

Her practical impact has been tangible. Return to work documentation, onboarding processes and meeting governance have all been overhauled on her own initiative. A recent on-site investigation was handled transparently and resolved clearly, with managers across the business now better equipped to handle similar situations as a result of the frameworks she has put in place.

Stuart Elford, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “Tara has done something that takes real professional courage: she has walked into a business, identified what needed improving, and fixed it without being asked. Distinction level in her HR Level 3, nominated as apprentice of the year, and already making a measurable difference to how Eden Pet Foods operates. She is a deserving finalist and a brilliant example of what this award is all about.”

The winners will be revealed at a gala awards ceremony at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Thursday 9 July 2026, followed by The After Party, a late-night celebration for finalists, winners and partners.

To find out more about the 2026 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards, visit staffordshirechambers.co.uk/awards.