Call for Expressions of Interest to Judge the ARIAS 2026 - deadline 19 January at 9am.
Do you have a passion for excellence in radio and audio? If so, why not put your expertise to good use as one of our esteemed panel members for the 2026 ARIAS.
We are now accepting Expressions of Interest from all Radio Academy Members who are interested in being Judges at the 2026 ARIAS.
The Radio Academy ARIAS (Audio and Radio Industry Awards) are the premium awards to showcase the very best of UK radio and audio. Presented annually, the awards recognise, honour and celebrate outstanding shows and the teams behind them.
The ARIAS are judged by around 200 senior audio and radio practitioners, drawn from all sectors of the industry. Panels are carefully balanced to ensure representation of all areas of the industry.
It is an honour to judge the awards and be a part of highlighting the UK's premium position in the global audio landscape. We invite you to express your interest in this exciting opportunity.
Why judge the ARIAS?
As a judge for the 2026 ARIAS, you will have the unique chance to:
- Shape Excellence: Your expertise and insights will play a pivotal role in selecting and celebrating the most exceptional initiatives, programmes, and individuals in UK audio and radio. Your contribution will help set the standard for excellence and inspire others in the field.
- Stay at the Forefront of Innovation: Be exposed to the very best practices and stay updated on the latest trends across the audio and radio landscape.
- Expand Your Professional Network: Connect with other Radio Academy Members and top-tier professionals. Forge new relationships, exchange ideas, and engage with thought leaders who are driving innovation in the industry.
What will you need to commit to?
- Judges are allocated a category and you’ll be required to listen to all entries in that category within the allocated judging period.
- All judges are required to join a briefing session with the Head Judge of the category in advance of scoring opening, in early-mid February.
- Judging will take place between 23rd February and 27th March 2026 (all scoring is anonymous).
- You’ll be required to join an online panel meeting to determine the final nominees and winners in that category.
- While judges may publicly share their involvement in the ARIAS, category allocation, scoring and any information on entries must be kept strictly confidential.
How to express your interest
To express your interest in becoming a judge for the ARIAS 2026, please complete the form below. Our selection team will review all expressions of interest and select judges based on their expertise, experience, and alignment with The Radio Academy mission.
Please note, we cannot guarantee a judging place to everyone who expresses an interest.
Review and selection of judges
- Applications are open from now until 19th January 2026 at 9am.
- The submission form is only visible to logged-in Radio Academy Members.
- All questions on the form mandatory, and a current CV should be attached.
Express your interest today and be a part of something extraordinary.
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