We are delighted to share that Jo Yarker, our co-Managing Partner of Affinity Health at Work, has been nominated as one of HR's Most Influential Thinkers 2025.

Jo was nominated for her work supporting HR and organisational leaders to address complex workforce health and wellbeing challenges – from cost-effective investment in workplace mental health and absence management to manager capability and compliance with psychosocial risk regulations. Her work leading national and international programmes to build healthier, more inclusive and productive organisations.

Combining academic expertise with hands-on consultancy, Jo co-developed the widely adopted 'IGLOO' model for return to work, providing a practical framework for employers tackle the root causes of absence, reduce stigma, and equip managers with the tools and confidence to support sustainable attendance and performance.

We are thrilled that she has been recognised for prioritising implementation, evaluation and systemic change, helping organisations move beyond individual-level fixes to embed good work practices that support people to return to, stay in and thrive at work.