HR.com has announced the winners of its 2026 Employee Experience Awards, recognizing organizations and leaders that are transforming the workplace through innovative technology and strategic human resources practices. The awards highlight the growing importance of employee experience as a driver of organizational success, with this year's honorees setting new benchmarks in engagement, retention, and culture.
Semos Cloud received the Best Employee Experience Platform Award for its People and Culture Intelligence Platform. The AI-powered solution unifies Total Rewards, Employee Communications, and Talent Development, integrating deeply with major HR systems such as SAP SuccessFactors, Workday, and Oracle Cloud HCM. By enabling organizations to increase engagement and reduce turnover while strengthening manager effectiveness, the platform positions HR as a strategic partner in driving culture and performance. More details about the platform can be found at HR.com Awards.
The Most Engaging Employee Experience Award was presented to Kimberly Cole, Executive Vice President of Human Capital at 9th Way Insignia. Cole has redefined employee experience through initiatives that enhance engagement, development, and retention. Her programs include the CyberSmart professional development initiative and a 360-degree performance review system, which expand growth opportunities and deliver measurable results. Through values-based recognition, high-touch onboarding, and ongoing connection strategies, Cole has fostered trust and loyalty, contributing to near-zero voluntary turnover and setting a new standard for HR excellence.
“Employee experience has become a critical driver of organizational success,” said Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com. “This year’s award winners are setting a new standard by combining innovation, technology, and human-centered strategies to create workplaces where employees can truly thrive.” The recognition underscores the pivotal role of employee experience in attracting and retaining talent, particularly in a competitive labor market where engagement directly impacts productivity and profitability.
HR.com, the largest network of HR professionals, serves over 2 million members with resources for career development, networking, and compliance. The organization offers more than 300 research studies, 500 annual webcasts, and certification exam prep programs. For more information, visit HR.com.
