In partnership with Cranfield University School of Management, Dole’s ten-month leadership programme has been honoured for its innovative approach to developing talent across the global organisation
Dole has announced that its international Key Talent Programme has been recognised at the Brandon Hall Group awards, bringing home Gold for excellence in the leadership development category on 14 August.
The 2025 Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards recognises best practices for initiatives in learning and development, talent management, leadership development, talent acquisition, human resources, sales performance, diversity, equity and inclusion, and the future of work.
The Dole Key Talent Programme, delivered in partnership with the Cranfield University School of Management, supports the development and career progression of leaders across the group.
In place since 2018, the programme takes groups of participants through a ten-month learning journey which incorporates gaining in-depth self-awareness, working in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, and learning about best practice business strategy design combined with presenting to senior colleagues.
Speaking of the award, David Frost, group people and organisational development director at Dole, paid tribute to organisers and participants in the Key Talent Programme alike.
“We are very grateful for this excellent recognition from Brandon Hall Group which comes on the back of being awarded the Business Culture Award for Best Large Organisation 2024 in recognition of the impact of the Key Talent Programme,” he said.
”This has only been possible with the support of our partners, Cranfield University School of Management, The Coaching Team, Insight Traction and REAP Leadership in addition to the continuing commitment of the Dole leadership team and colleagues across the group.”
Entries for the awards were evaluated by a panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts, Brandon Hall Group analysts, and executives.
“The 2025 Excellence Award recipients represent the pinnacle of achievement in human capital management,” said Brandon Hall Group CEO Mike Cooke.
”What sets this year’s winners apart is their bold embrace of emerging technologies and their commitment to creating meaningful employee experiences that drive tangible business results.
”These organisations have demonstrated that when you invest in your people with purpose and innovation, the impact resonates throughout the entire enterprise, creating sustainable competitive advantages in today’s dynamic business landscape,” he outlined.
Dole said it recognised that its people define its business and frame its competitive advantage.
”The achievement of this award is a testament to the commitment of our colleagues and our shared dedication to being an employer of choice; at production, in the marketplace, close to home and across the globe,” the group added.
