FAQs
How do I submit a nomination?
It's easy; download the nomination form then once complete submit your nomination via email to dse-reward@manchester.ac.uk
What is the deadline for nominations?
Nominations for 2026 are now open. Nominations must be submitted by Friday 12th December.
Who can nominate?
We encourage everyone in DSE to celebrate great work! Here’s how nominations work:
- Staff can nominate any individual or team — just not themselves or their own team.
- Managers can nominate their own team or team members.
- For team nominations, managers are recognised as supporters, not team members.
Can previous nominees / winners be nominated again?
We welcome nominations for individuals who were previously nominated but did not win, especially where there is clear evidence of further contribution and impact since their last nomination.
Nominations for past winners (within the last three years) will only be considered if there has been significant development in their work or involvement in a new project or initiative that aligns with the award categories.
A list of past winners and nominees is available on the dedicated pages.
What constitutes a piece of evidence?
A piece of evidence can be a letter, email or statement from a colleague, peer or other satisfied customer which helps to demonstrate how the nominee meets the nomination criteria.
How will the panel judge the nominations?
The awards will be judged by a panel comprising representatives from both the DSE and the wider University community. Each judge will independently review and score the nominations before the panel convenes to discuss the results. Nominations will be assessed based on the criteria specific to each award category.
In addition to selecting category winners, the panel will identify the recipient of the Alex Jackson Award. They will also consider whether any nominations merit submission to the University’s Distinguished Achievement Awards.
Who is invited to the awards ceremony?
All members of staff who have been nominated, their line manager and nominator will receive an invite to the awards ceremony.
Who do I contact if I need help?
If you're in doubt about how to present your nomination, try and get advice from a colleague or your line manager.
You can also contact the Directorate Office at dse-reward@manchester.ac.uk