Gresham Smith and the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) have received the Gold Award in the Best Leadership Development Program category for the 2026 Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards. The recognition honors Gresham Smith’s Leadership Evolution and Advancement Program (LEAP), a year-long experience designed to strengthen leadership effectiveness, expand perspectives, and build meaningful connections across the firm.
Developed with CCL, LEAP brings together leaders from across Gresham Smith for an integrated program that combines immersive in-person summits, collaborative small-group experiences, and targeted learning sessions centered on real-world leadership challenges. Throughout the year, participants deepen their leadership approach skills, while strengthening the relationships and alignment needed to lead successful teams and projects.
“Receiving a Gold award reflects what LEAP was built to do: develop leaders who can deliver today and strengthen our succession planning for the future,” said Chief Operating Officer Peter Oram. “We want the right people in the right places, ready to step into leadership roles as their careers evolve. LEAP balances leadership development with a clearer understanding of how our firm operates, and it is strengthened by the support and active participation of our Management Team.”
Often called the “Academy Awards of Human Capital Management,” the Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards have recognized organizations that set the standard for excellence in human capital management. Thousands of entries were submitted for consideration this year and evaluated through Brandon Hall Group’s published judging methodology by a panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts, along with Brandon Hall Group analysts and executives. Entries were assessed for business alignment, program design and delivery, adoption and innovation, and measurable impact.
The Gold award represents the highest level of recognition in the category and underscores LEAP’s strength in pairing a high-quality learning experience with measurable outcomes.
LEAP is part of Gresham Smith’s broader commitment to supporting employee growth and development at every stage of their careers. Through the firm’s Build U program, employees have access to tools, resources and learning opportunities that empower personal and professional development. As employees transition into leadership roles, Gresham Smith offers development programs tailored to their level and experience to ensure ongoing support and growth.
In addition to LEAP, the firm developed Way to Lead, a series of monthly courses focused on personal development, leadership strategies, team dynamics and cultivating a strong workplace culture. For new and emerging leaders, The Blueprint for Supervisory Excellence is a six-month, cohort-based program designed to help participants build the skills and confidence to become effective supervisors. The firm’s mentorship program pairs employees with experienced colleagues who provide guidance during leadership transitions, and new managers also have access to dedicated HR partners who provide coaching, answer questions and help leaders navigate challenges.
