Mark Thomas is a seasoned global HR leader with a proven track record in driving business transformation, talent strategy, and people development. Now serving as Head of Talent at the Wellcome Trust, he leads the organisation’s integrated talent strategy—spanning talent acquisition, people development, leadership capability, and talent management—to help make Wellcome the best place to work and support its mission to improve health for everyone. Prior to Wellcome, Mark held senior roles at IG, Abcam, Tesco and Marks & Spencer, where he helped scale global workforces and strengthen people capability during periods of rapid growth.

Mark has led award winning teams recognised for excellence in employee experience, culture, learning, diversity and recruitment. His teams achieved Glassdoor’s “Top 10 Best Places to Work” for three consecutive years, along with awards including The Talent Labs Operational Effectiveness Award and the Tiara Award for Innovation in Recruitment—each highlighting measurable impact on talent, organisational performance, and leadership capability. A frequent contributor to industry discussions he is passionate about innovation in talent management and building inclusive, high performing workplaces. Outside work, he enjoys travel, Roman history, and supporting West Bromwich Albion.

“I’m delighted to be returning as a judge for the Talent Labs Awards. The work happening across our profession is truly inspiring, and it’s a privilege to help recognise the teams and individuals driving real impact in talent.”