Official Guidance: MOD Quality Awards Programme and Nomination Process

Overview of the MOD Quality Awards

The Ministry of Defence Quality Awards programme is designed to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate individuals and teams that have delivered substantial business improvements through a dedicated commitment to quality. The initiative is officially endorsed by the Chartered Quality Institute (CQI).

Nominations are welcomed across five distinct categories:

• Rising Star
• Best Improvement
• Quality Ambassador
• Inspiring Leadership
• MOD Quality Supplier of the Year

Eligibility for Nominations

Both military and civilian personnel across the MOD and its industry partners are eligible to submit nominations, regardless of their specific profession. The programme extends beyond the quality function to recognise contributions from across all disciplines. Suppliers to the MOD, including prime contractors, their supply chain partners, and small to medium-sized enterprises, are also encouraged to participate.

The scheme is inclusive, with no distinction drawn between entire organisations, project teams, individual contributors, or supplier partners.

How to Participate

To put forward a colleague, team, or organisation that exemplifies excellence in quality, complete the official nomination form by 25 September 2026.

Evaluation and Awards Ceremony

Independent judging panels comprising representatives from the MOD and the Chartered Quality Institute will convene during September and October. For the Quality Supplier of the Year category, the Defence Quality Assurance Field Force will also be involved in the assessment. Where nominations are closely contested, shortlisted candidates may be invited to attend a virtual interview with the panel.

Winners will receive their award and certificate at a dedicated ceremony scheduled for later in the year.

For further information or guidance, contact DESEngSfty-QSEPQCM-Pol-Awards@mod.gov.uk.

Award Category Criteria

Rising Star

Recognises an individual in the early stages of their quality career, typically within their first two to three years, who has demonstrated exceptional performance, clear potential for advancement, and professional qualities such as enthusiasm, initiative, and a commitment to delivering meaningful business outcomes.

John Bullock Quality Ambassador

Honours an individual who serves as an outstanding role model, consistently exceeding expectations to foster positive workplace culture through mentoring, coaching, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of best practices that generate tangible organisational benefits.

Inspiring Leadership

Celebrates a team or individual who has effectively motivated and guided others to reach their full potential through clear vision, strategic direction, and the delivery of significant business outcomes.

Best Improvement

Acknowledges a team or individual whose exceptional efforts in implementing improvements have produced substantial benefits and measurable outcomes for the organisation.

MOD Quality Supplier of the Year

Recognises a Defence supplier that has demonstrated excellence in governance, assurance, improvement, and leadership. Eligible suppliers must provide substantial evidence of effective root cause analysis, investment in resources, a commitment to continual improvement, and recognised thought leadership within the sector.

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