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Ready to make an impact but fancy a smaller workplace? These employers could be for you…
They said we will still need to divide up the lists by size though, hope that is do-able? And flag up that these are ALL the best places to work: Very Big, Big, Medium-size and Small - on the tab and/or home screen somehow.
5 Squirrels
Every employee at the Hove-based cosmetic manufacturer receives a full salary for working one day less, thanks to the introduction of the four-day working week across the company. Training programmes and staff mentoring accompany this flexible-working approach, and team members are rewarded for their successes with two additional days off and a Euro city break every Christmas.
Albion Nord
The 15 employees of this London interior design studio work partly from home but are encouraged to visit galleries and exhibitions to benefit their development. Perks at the company, which aims to create “spaces with a sense of place”, include private medical insurance and suitably stylish summer and winter parties.
Alexander Grace
Three converted barns on a private estate and a welcoming committee of sheep nearby form the backdrop of working life for the staff of this Warwickshire financial services company. Senior team members at Alexander Grace aim to always be approachable, while employees can acknowledge their colleagues’ work via a reward and recognition scheme. Private medical benefits and professional development programmes add to the staff experience.
Allison+Partners
This global marketing and communications agency’s UK headquarters are on Leman Street in east London.
ALTO
Mistakes are valued as learning opportunities at this Aberdeen-based IT company. Staff at ALTO get the freedom to choose their own projects, and at the biannual ALTO 360 meetings, employees appraise the company as well as receiving their own feedback. Regular training supports their cyber skills, and subsidised yoga and private healthcare boost staff wellbeing.
Appetite for Business
A commitment to staff wellbeing is a core value at Appetite for Business. The Aberdeen-based digital technology company offers employees paid time away from the office to rest and recuperate, alongside regular funded out-of-office activities. Monthly innovation sessions and professional learning programmes support staff development, alongside mandatory lunchbreaks and subsidised gym membership.
Arthur Financial
Hours matter less than people at this London-based financial recruitment agency. The firm commits to a “transparent working environment” for its 47 employees, sharing four-year business plans and giving everyone their own “roadmap to success” – but within a 32-hour working week, hybrid structure and a 1pm Friday finish. Last year, more than a third of staffers were promoted and the firm grew by 65 per cent. The “perk pack” includes financial bonuses, training and wellbeing extras such as massages.
Artiq
International art agency Artiq is based in London.
Autolomous
Providing cell and gene therapy manufacturers with ways to scale their operations, this London-based company challenges staff to “Do meaningful work. Take ownership. Never stop learning.”
Barrows Global
A daily dose of happiness is bought to staff by a team of volunteers known as the Joy Division. Employees at this London marketing agency are encouraged to contribute their thoughts every morning at kick-off, and have weekly “tools down” sessions, where they step away from their desks to spend time together as a team. Staff receive regular formal training alongside an unlimited-holiday programme, and individual and collective performances are celebrated on a monthly basis.
Better Placed
Owned jointly by its 37 employees, this Leeds-based recruitment agency offers incentive trips to Cape Town, Dubai and Las Vegas, plus bonus schemes and gym membership. The firm recruits for jobs in digital companies, tech and marketing while fostering an environment in which its own people tend to stay put.
Big Bite Creative
Lunch is free as well as healthy for the Big Bite Creative team, who help organisations improve how they publish their digital content. The Middlesbrough tech firm offers its 28 employees an average salary above £45,000 plus bonuses, and everyone gets £750 a year for learning resources or attending industry events.
Boost Drinks
“Energising everybody in every way” is the pledge at this Leeds-based drinks manufacturer. Each team member receives a customised professional development plan, alongside confidence building and mental health awareness training. An individual enrichment allowance of £500 can be spent on any kind of training or wellbeing initiative that will enhance employees’ lives. Perks also include Leeds United tickets and an annual free drink allowance.
BOSS Professional Services
Jetting off to Miami or South Africa is an annual “super incentive” for staff at this recruitment business in London. Team members are encouraged to hit their monthly targets with access to a companywide commission scheme, alongside quarterly lunch clubs. A two-week office closure over the Christmas period gives staff their downtime, while every Friday ends by 4pm.
Bountiful Cow
At the Monday “Moo” meetings at this London marketing agency, employees are encouraged to share ideas that stand out from the herd. Team members are encouraged to challenge conventional approaches, supported with coaching sessions in leadership and resilience. Private medical insurance and unlimited telephone counselling are among the staff benefits, and there’s a monthly office party.
Bricklane
Staff can choose their own working schedule at the London-based real estate firm, taking advantage of four flexible holidays and three weeks of working abroad. Employees are encouraged to take up training opportunities, with an annual personal development budget of £1,500 for each member of the team, and regular company socials provide downtime away from your desks.
Business Design Centre
For staff at this London events venue, achievements big and small are regularly celebrated. Starburst Awards recognise those who have gone the extra mile, whilst longevity in service is rewarded with travel vouchers, and dinner with the CEO. New starters are similarly valued, the company’s ‘new talent group’ recruiting recent employees, and free access to the Calm and Headspace apps ensures that team mental health is supported.
Career Legal
Career advancement is taken seriously at this London recruitment firm, with every team member receiving training and development in a specialism of their choice. A hybrid working policy and pension rewards for being employee of the month add to the Career Legal experience while company-wide chocolate boxes on Valentine’s Day sweeten the deal.
Catch Comms
Employees at this Liverpool communications agency choose their own schedules, thanks to the company’s Be Your Own Boss model. Staff feedback is encouraged through an anonymous honesty box, while monthly check-in sessions with the company founders keep the exclusively remote working team connected. Employees are encouraged to “live loudly and honestly, across all areas of the business”, a commitment underpinned by the company’s comprehensive JEDI policy covering Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.
Cedar Dean
This London-based real estate firm specialises in lease restructuring in the commercial property market.
Centre for Progressive Policy
A flexible working model and an onsite professional chef are two of the perks for employees at this London-based economic think tank. Staff based outside the capital are offered access to co-working spaces or can log on from home, and there are regular training opportunities across the team.
Chorus
Collective, confident and creative are the buzzwords for employees of this London creative agency. Year-round career-coaching boosts staff development and biannual training days away from the office include speakers on goal-setting and meditation. Through the company’s cycle to work scheme, team members can buy a bike of any kind for their commute. They also receive a free Apple watch to monitor their health.
Claritas Tax
Birmingham-based tax consultancy
Cream UK
Regular “inspiration socials” keep staff thinking creatively at this London marketing agency. Unconventional team training happens at the Royal Court theatre, and every six weeks employees join in a “cream forum” to celebrate their own successes and acknowledge the achievements of their colleagues. Staff are given time off for volunteer work at nominated charities, while healthcare packages and reduced working hours are among the perks.
Designate
A company bonus scheme rewards every member of the team for their collective efforts at this Brighton design agency. Staff receive regular appraisals and training, while a monthly culture club provides a range of cultural, creative and social events for employees.
DeskLodge
With its motto “Looks like work, feels like fun”, DeskLodge has plenty to live up to, which is why its staff of 11 are offered Audible membership, monthly lunches, weekends away and £500 annual training allowances (plus free sweets on Fridays). The Bristol-based business runs offices and shared working space.
Digital Radish
This London-based agency specialises in account-based marketing for business-to-business clients.
East Anglian Air Ambulance
Anyone can nominate a colleague for a commendation recognising extraordinary work at this Norwich charity. Staff health is a priority, with seminars on wellbeing topics held every six weeks, and a specially trained therapy dog on hand to offer support and comfort. Team members receive two paid wellbeing days a year, and a companywide benefit scheme allows staff to access discounts at over 800 retailers.
Electra Learning
International exchange trips and global get-togethers keep employees connected at this Aberdeenshire management company. Great work is recognised, with one-off vouchers and bonuses for team members who have excelled. Staff have regular social events funded by the company, and short daily meetings enable colleagues to check in even when working remotely.
Empirisys
Staff at this data science company in Cardiff have the future in their sights. The company’sLeaders’ Journeys programm e offers external coaching to young team members, developing their skills to become the leaders of tomorrow. Further employee training is similarly funded, with paid time off to learn, and a “wherever, whenever” approach to flexible working allows staff to choose their own schedules.
Fintelligent Search
Staff fitness is ingrained at Fintelligent Search, which offers extended gym lunch breaks to its 12 employees. Based in snazzy new office space in Manchester, the financial services, insurance and legal recruitment company provides flexitime, trips overseas, early-finish Fridays and 12 “star days” of extra annual leave based on performance.
Firethorn Trust
An office Peloton room and gym memberships keep staff moving at this real estate agency. Employees at the London business receive external training programmes, including real estate analysis, and team benefits include private health plans.
Five by Five
Staff at the Southampton marketing agency run a variety of team-led network groups, championing their colleagues through LGBTQ+ awareness and supporting parents and carers, to name but a few. This employee support is matched by the company, with staff encouraged to spend 90 days working abroad to experience a different culture. An onsite free bar and games room help colleagues decompress at the end of the day.
Fresh Air Production
It’s nice to be recognised and this London enterprise with a staff of 12 reckons it has the “loudest cohort at award ceremonies”. Run by friends Neil Cowling (founder), Michaela Hallam and Richard Blake, it makes podcasts and radio programmes, with a culture of cooperation and a transparent salary structure.
Glenhawk
Staff at this London financial services firm are encouraged to take time to pause. Team members are entitled to two additional days of annual leave – “think days” – to allow them to recharge and reflect. A dog-friendly office, sponsored industry qualifications and hybrid working also help colleagues to stay motivated.
GrowUp Farms
New members are welcomed to the team with a motivational speaker and training plan at this Kent farming company. Staff feedback is valued at monthly town hall meetings and trained mental health first aiders are on hand to support employees.
H30 Digital
Employees can choose their own training plans at H30 Digital, taking courses in anything that interests them, funded by the company. This London-based digital technology business offers remote working, weekly free lunches and regular social events for staff. Directors at the company lead by example through a personal coaching scheme, taking time out to mentor other members of the team.
Halkin
Staff at this London real estate company are offered opportunities for training and promotions. A round-the-clock wellness consultant is on hand for colleague check-ins, and every employee gets an additional Christmas payment of £250, alongside their standard bonuses. Staff are encouraged to share their passions and hobbies, with the company hosting product launch events for employee projects.
Household Design
Your birthday is taken care of at this London design agency. Staff get the day off and £100 towards a restaurant meal on their birthday, one of many employee perks. Every member of the team has access to independent financial advice, alongside a £500 bonus for referring a friend who is then hired by the company. Team socialising is supported with office drinks on Wednesday afternoons, and the annual employee awards give colleagues a chance to celebrate their successes.
Howell Technology Group
Every team member at this Hebburn-based digital technology firm is given a Kindle, mobile phone and a day each month dedicated to training and development. Education and development are key values, and employees are rewarded by managers for embodying them. Colleagues can work from anywhere for up to 45 days a year, while quarterly staff socials encourage the team to meet up in real life.
Ibex Gale
All employees of this Bristol-based workplace investigations business are able to work remotely, supported by weekly wellbeing checks and a team mental health champion. Staff receive wellbeing vouchers to spend on ways to relax, and their work achievements are regularly celebrated. Through the employee experience group, team members suggest improvements to senior management, and every employee has access to a training programme tailored to their individual role in the company.
Invisible Systems
Manchester-based software provider
Isobel Advertising
It’s a hoot working at this London advertising agency, thanks to comedy night Isobelly Laughs. The company hosts the only regular stand-up comedy night for the advertising industry, an employee proposal established through the company stipulation that “anyone can suggest an initiative, as long as it fuels our culture in a positive way”. This positive staff culture is further reinforced through private medical insurance, 24-hour access to a counselling team and fully flexible working conditions.
Kingston Barnes
A reward is always on the cards at this Bristol recruitment agency, with staff competing for daily, monthly, quarterly and yearly prizes. Personal milestones are acknowledged with champagne, while the whole office takes an all-expenses paid trip in recognition of the hard work of employees. New challenges are encouraged, with every staff member receiving bespoke career training, and at weekly feelgood Friday sessions, colleagues celebrate each other’s achievements.
Leaders in Care Recruitment
Leaders in Care Recruitment really is a listening employer – when one of its 31 employees wins a deal, their computer plays them a personalised song. The Manchester firm, which finds people for jobs in healthcare and biotechnology, offers incentives such as company holidays and up to 12 extra days off a year.
Lemongrass Marketing
Four days a week are for work at Lemongrass Marketing – and the fifth, for the 13 employees, is set aside for volunteering, hobbies or just enjoying life. The Bicester-based travel PRcompany has a hybrid working policy, and perks include travel insurance, private healthcare and a bonus scheme.
Liddy’s Solicitors
From paying for driving lessons to loans for home repairs, Liddy’s Solicitors stands up for the interests of its 16 employees. The Barnsley-based firm has donated an average of 15 per cent of profits in the past four years to a local dementia charity and given up more than a third of its head office space for its new daycare centre. Employees receive a profit-share bonus, £250 a year for gym membership, glasses or therapy, plus heavily subsidised access to a holiday home in Wales for a week a year.
Lucky Saint
This alcohol-free beer company has a mission to “inspire the world to drink better”, and employees raise a healthy glass at its Thirsty Thursday drinks. The London-based firm, which has 50 employees, wants to prioritise “good mental health practices, making sustainability second nature, championing growth and making every one of our team a real share holder in the business”, one employee says.
Marble LDN
A day’s work sometimes involves a pop-up nutrition clinic or breath work coaching at “live experience agency” Marble. The London-based marketing firm has 25 employees who enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours and free lunches on office days. There’s a £250 annual budget for inspiring experiences and every team member can also invest in the growing business.
Masentó Group
Tech recruitment company Masentó gives its 32 employees time to unwind, with four-day weeks in August, early finishes on Fridays, flexible and hybrid working patterns and team holidays. The London-based firm has rewards such as watches and a quarterly club for high achievers, while everyone has access to a financial advisor, fitness classes and a dog-friendly office.
Measurelab
“We’re all experts, but nobody thinks they know best,” says one employee at internet marketing company Measurelab. The firm, based in Lewes, East Sussex, has 24 employees who have a “remote first” working pattern, monthly socials in real life and an “appreciation channel” on Slack for compliments. Perks include a takeaway voucher once a month, private medical insurance and mental health support.
Medilink North of England
Excellent healthcare is a given for the 10 employees at Medilink North of England, a professional association and consultancy for the life science sector. The Sheffield-based non profit offers its staff a free private healthcare cash plan including mental health support, monthly wellbeing days, plus opportunities to travel and engage with charitable activities.
Mesh Energy
This buildings consultant is all about energy. While it helps its clients create low-energy buildings, it assembles a sparky workplace for 20 employees. The company, based in Farnham, Surrey, is a registered B Corp. Team members live all over the country and can work remotely, and perks include £1,000 spot bonuses for outstanding work.
Mobilise Cloud Services
This technology company encourages its 45 employees to make smart career moves through its own training academy and internal development track. The Cardiff-based firm, which helps companies and public sector organisations use cloud services, has a diversity and inclusion group to increase its numbers of women and ethnic minorities. Unsurprisingly, the working environment is also remote first.
Moju
Employees call the shots at Moju, which aims to be a business where its 28 people really want to work. The London-based drinks company – whose products include vitamin D and turmeric shots – encourages everyone to give feedback, and has perks including a free breakfast, twice-weekly free lunch, flexible working hours and ClassPass gym memberships.
Mr President
A surfboard made from Cornish ocean waste is among the productions from this London-based advertising agency, which every year gives one of its 24 people a £10,000 “project Marilyn” budget for a product or cause. Creative Jake Smith, whose family lives in a small village in Cornwall and who came up with the idea, also won the firm’s monthly hero bonus of £100. Everyone has a personal progress diary rather than formal reviews, people rate their week with a Friday “pulse” and rewards include weekly massages, free coffee at a local café, a fully stocked kitchen, and last year there was a two-night trip to Lisbon.
NewRiver REIT
Ten years at this London-based real estate investment trust are rewarded with a fully paid six-week sabbatical. The trust owns shopping centres and retail parks across the UK, and three-quarters of its 48 people have been here for at least five years. Incentives include full private medical cover, “gender-agnostic shared parental leave policies” and flexible working patterns.
Nexus Search
Monthly massages and unlimited holidays await staff at this London recruitment firm. Hard work is recognised, with high achievers in the team rewarded through two international holidays a year, and quarterly lunch clubs. Employees are taken care of away from their desks, too, with subsidised gym memberships and a fully paid month long sabbatical after five years at the company.
Office Space in Town
Every staff member at this London real estate agency received a recent pay rise, a move indicative of the company mantra: “If we look after our staff, our staff look after our clients.” All employees are offered training in courses spanning academia to life skills, with private health care and monthly social events to boot. When needing a screen break, team members can access the onsite gyms, gaming rooms and reflections spaces.
Olsam Group
Employees pick and mix their benefits at this London based e-commerce platform, selecting the perks that work best for them. New starters are celebrated through the company’s HiBob online communication channel, alongside recognition of employee tenure. Feedback from the team is encouraged in monthly pulse surveys, and the executive team commit to delivering a number of goals directly based on this employee feedback.
Olympus Power
This Exeter-based firm designs, builds and installs renewable energy technology.
Oxford Cannabinoid Technologies Holdings
Staff at the Oxford-based biopharmaceutical company benefit from remote working and regular training opportunities. The company takes pride in being supportive and recognising success at every level.
Pertemps Professional Recruitment
Employees are offered their own stake in the business at this London recruitment agency with Pertemps’ share scheme. Colleagues reach their goals through specific development pathways built by specialist trainers, while Perkbox membership is rolled out company-wide, offering discounts on more than 5,000 gyms and salons. Informal “shout outs” sit alongside formal award ceremonies to celebrate staff achievements for the company and community.
Pi Consulting (UK)
At the annual business scoping session of this London pension consultancy, every staff member can contribute ideas. A company performance reward structure ensures everyone shares in bonuses. Flexible and home working for staff is offered, and is supported through team-wide access to a full suite of equipment and IT support. Everyone has access to wellbeing services including online counselling, alongside specialist speakers addressing topics chosen by employees.
PIMFA
The Personal Investment Management and Financial Advice Association is a trade association based in London.
Plan A Consultants
Every team member is encouraged to “put your own stamp on the role”, at this London architecture firm. All new hires receive employee-led training, and there are weekly lunchtime Continuing Professional Development sessions. Staff are encouraged to give back at regular charity events, alongside two days of volunteering leave a year, while employee “energy champions” and an emphasis on local suppliers keep the firm green. There is twice-monthly office yoga for the team, and regular staff social events.
Precision Card Services
Employees are actively encouraged in their career ambitions at this Cheshire-based plastic card manufacturer. Mentoring and formal training are on offer to staff, and there are regular activities and incentives for both departments and individuals. A cycle to work scheme encourages employees to get moving, as well as company days and nights out.
r10 Consulting
The “talent pathway” at this London management consultancy allows employees to develop their expertise, without being limited to a timeline. Staff are empowered to achieve their goals with regular performance reviews and access to development programmes. Hard work is subsequently recognised through the company awards programme, and there are regular team social events such as team building and sports. Better yet, every Friday is a work from home day, without any meetings at all.
Re-Flow
Teams are tight at Re-Flow, a field management software provider based in Exeter. Helping them bond are regular social activities, from group dinners to paintballing and virtual reality parties. A growing business, Re-Flow pays for certifications, training and courses for employees, while perks include dental and eye-care plans, a pension and a cycle-to-work scheme.
Sacla UK
“It’s better together” is the motto at this Buckinghamshire-based food wholesalers, which works on a portfolio of the well-known Italian family-owned brands. Staff never go hungry with free food always on offer, alongside a flexible working structure and health care plans.
Samuel Knight International
A fully paid luxury villa holiday with VIP passes awaits staff at this Newcastle recruitment agency. Through its annual “high rollers” incentive programme, 11 team members can win their spot in the villa as a reward for hard work. Unlimited holidays and a four-day working week ensure that employees have time to relax away from the office, while continuous one-to-one training and tailored development plans support colleagues throughout their roles.
Spike Global
Staff can head to the beach early at this Bournemouth software company, thanks to a 3pm finish every Friday. A flexible working policy means employees can work from the location that suits them, while monthly company socials such as axe-throwing and retro games nights keep the team connected. Staff chose the Charity of the Year, taking part in fundraising events and initiatives, and cultural holidays are celebrated in the office, alongside events for International Women’s Day.
SportsPro Media
When the 43 staff of this sports media and events company are not working from home, they are based in WeWork offices in Victoria, London. The firm is proud of its high staff retention rate, which is coupled with its growth – of 68 per cent in the past 12 months and 153 per cent in the past 24 month. Sports industry experts and graduate talent rub shoulders while company-wide communications keep everyone on the ball.
Staffbase
“Communicorns”, as the staffers at this employee communications management platform call themselves, are based in a shared WeWork space in central London. Socialising after work is standard for the international team of 44, only a handful of whom are UK natives. A growth budget of £900 a person funds professional or personal skills while every Friday is a “feel good” day off for all.
SunGod
This London-based firm makes carbon neutral sunglasses and goggles “for bike, run, snow and everyday”.
SWC Partnership
The SWC Partnership mantra is “Live, learn, evolve” and in that spirit, the Tunbridge Wells-based marketing agency, founded in 2014, was acquired by global agency UP There, Everywhere in February 2023. Hours are flexible and location is hybrid: the 12 employees typically work two days a week in the office.
Tapestry Compliance
Everyone in the Tapestry Compliance team is an owner in the business, from junior support staff to the Sheffield law firm’s most senior lawyers. Specialists in employee incentives for clients including Unilver and Rolls-Royce, the workforce of 35 is majority female, as is the leadership team – which also includes LGBTQIA+ and disabled employees, while 42 per cent of staff are part-time workers.
TGP International
This global hospitality agency is headquartered in London’s Covent Garden
The Collective Dairy
“Great dairy, no bull!” is the motto at The Collective, which wants to make “ridiculously tasty” yogurts and kefir with the lowest possible impact on the planet. The London-based firm also aims to pay its 34 people fairly, offering a health cash plan, annual bonus, free Tuesday breakfasts, Thursday drinks and weekly yoga, and a monthly £200 voucher for someone who “lives and breathes our values”.
tml Partners
Uncapped bonuses are not the only driving force at executive search firm tml (tomorrow’s market leaders) Partners. A wealth of sustainability initiatives boost morale, too, and the B Corp registered business pledges 5 per cent of employees’ time to working with social mobility charities. Based on Fleet Street in London, the 23 employees have an onsite gym and free massage sessions while working locations are hybrid and hours flexible.
Tribera
This creative content agency is based in Birmingham.
Tucker Stone
Everyone works flexibly at London executive search firm Tucker Stone, while eight out of the 11 employees moved to a four-day week over six months ago. The business’ focuses on output rather than input is supported by the provision of mobiles, laptops and ergonomic home office equipment company wide.
Uncommon
Career mapping sessions and a personal training fund support Uncommon employees’ personal growth. Based in London, the flexible workspace company provides its own team of 43 an office with natural light, plants and bespoke scents as well as ergonomic furniture to aid wellbeing. For self-development, workshops focus on mental health while one of the most popular, Uncommon Man, is a monthly session for men to connect, heal and grow.
Virtual Sales Team
This telemarketing firm is based in Towcester, Northamptonshire.
We Are Collider
Hybrid working is hardwired at this creative brand experience agency, where the 17 employees work three days a week in the London office and two from home. Social activities aim to cater to all tastes – with outings to Electric Shuffleboard and Guardians of the Galaxy Secret Cinema among recent jaunts. Sixty per cent of the senior team is female and everyone is kept in the business loop with weekly, monthly and quarterly updates while performance reviews set individual career goals.
Zestec Asset Management
A Bournemouth-based renewable energy asset management firm.
ZZPS
Training is part of the job for staff of parking ticket debt collection agency ZZPS. The entire 29-strong workforce at the Surrey-based firm has achieved their Level 3 NVQ in notice processing. Those being chased for payment of often controversial parking fines may feel less enthusiastic about ZZPS employees’ professional qualifications, however. There are also workshops on topics such as conflict management and GDPR legislation. Bacon sandwiches and pizza lighten the mood and staff can work from home if needed.
Very Big Organisations
2,000+ Employees
Arcadis
The hashtag #ProudToBeMe is shorthand at this London design and engineering consultancy for making its 4,536 staffers feel accepted. They are encouraged to bring their “authentic self” to work, where perks include health insurance and up to 27 days’ paid holiday. There are family-friendly policies designed to benefit employees of all genders.
CGI
Employees at this global IT and business consultancy with a London base are known as “members” because 85 per cent are shareholders. The firm sponsors professional training and its 6,304 staff have access to a wealth of benefits, such as medical cover and a retirement plan pension,gym membership, cheaper electric-vehicle leasing and extra paid holiday.
Childbase Partnership
As co-owners of the business, all 2,299 employees of Childbase are invested in early years care and education. Based in Newport Pagnell, the firm committed £8.5 million last year in extra “cost of living” support for staff at its 43 nurseries, with increased salaries, free meals at work and discounted shopping deals.
David Lloyd Leisure
Perks are fit for purpose at David Lloyd Leisure, whose 5,749 workers receive free membership and use of its gyms and pools. Last winter, the Hatfield-based group offered everyone a daily hot meal, whether or not they were on shift. People connect via an app and can join management development programmes.
FatFace
This clothes designer and retailer wants to help its 2,500 staff be “at their natural best, with a healthy culture that’s made for life”. The Havant-based business employs a hybrid working model, a badge scheme for colleagues to highlight each other’s achievements and prizes of Raleigh bikes.
MBDA
“Dynamic working” is one of the targets at this European missile developer and manufacturer, whose UK base is in Stevenage. Most of the 4,916 UK employees can work from home or juggle an early finish on Fridays. There is private healthcare, an annual bonus, enhanced parental leave and subsidised restaurants.
OVO Energy
The 4,242 workers at this Bristol-based renewable energy and utilities company have up to three paid days a year to volunteer for good causes. An extra 9 per cent of their salary is for flexible benefits such as gym memberships, while OVO’s “zero carbon” ambition encourages cycling to work and tech recycling.
Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust
The trust’s values – “We’re kind, we’re fair, we listen, we care” – were chosen by its 4,000 employees, based in Dartford, who have a staff forum and wellbeing champions. The organisation has around 46 per cent black and ethnic minority representation and a commitment to “improve equality and inclusion to create an anti-racist organisation”.
PizzaExpress
When the cost of living crisis hit last year, PizzaExpress gave its 9,242 employees four free pizzas a month to eat with family and friends. The motto here is “express yourself” and one ingredient in its secret sauce is loyalty: half of the managers were promoted from within the Uxbridge-based business.
Veolia
Ecological transformation is the aspiration of this London-based water, waste and energy management company, which has a digitally connected workforce of 5,098. Work patterns are flexible and there’s a career development programme designed to boost the number of women in operational positions. Veolia also offers a share scheme and wellbeing benefits.
Big Organisations
250-1,999 Employees
Awin
Flexibility is the norm for staff at Awin, an affiliate marketing platform. It allows the 441 London-based employees to work either four days a week or three plus two half-days, and there are opportunities in 16 offices worldwide, alongside a wellness programme and access to mental health coaches.
Benefex
This technology business makes software to help companies in 80 countries manage their employee benefits. Unsurprisingly, it puts that experience into practice with its own 513 employees. The Southampton-based firm is 50 per cent women-led, surveys staff every month and acts on their suggestions, such as modifying processes for new starters with dyslexia.
Churchill Retirement Living
Clinton McCarthy isn’t just co-founder and managing director of this retirement-property builder, he’s also one of its trained mental health first-aiders. This private company, based in Ringwood, Hampshire supports its 393 employees with training programmes, peer-to-peer awards and a social committee that organises day trips and quiz nights.
HE Simm Group
There’s a promote-from-within policy at this 75-year-old mechanical and engineering contractor, started by Ernie Simm and now run by his grandson, Gareth. The 337 employees include 33 families apart from the Simms. People at the Liverpool-based business have access to free training and take part in charity schemes.
Mowgli Street Food
Charity is on the menu at this Liverpool-based Indian street food chain with 17 restaurants. For each full-time employee in the workforce of 652, the Mowgli Trust sponsors a child in India. Staff can also travel to India to learn about charitable projects and the cuisine’s history.
Octopus Energy
The growing London-based green energy business has 1,846 employees, a new Japanese arm and plans to build wind farms across Europe. It has created a podcast to help with recruitment and developed diverse interview panels. Employees get equity options and a tax-efficient scheme to lease an electric vehicle.
tails.com
A nine-day fortnight is being trialled to keep tails wagging at this dog-food delivery firm. The 324 staff in Richmond, southwest London, can work flexible hours and fuss over 57 registered office dogs. “Nothing lightens the mood in a meeting like a dog gnawing on an antler,” notes one employee.
The Edwin Group
A collection of companies, The Edwin Group recruits and supplies teachers and support staff for schools. Carbon negative, the Newcastle upon Tyne firm wants to “positively impact the lives of young people” – it has invested £600,000 to support mental health, attendance, sports and creative arts in schools. Its 263 staff benefit from 31 days’ annual holiday, four weeks’ paid paternity leave and management training.
the7stars
Employees at this London-based media agency can work from anywhere worldwide for four weeks. It believes in giving its 284 people a voice – they voted for dogs in the office – and runs company-wide retreats to Osea Island, Essex. The office is equipped with a bar serving prosecco on tap.
Vorboss
Connectivity is key at telecommunications outfit Vorboss, which provides a high-speed business fibre network to London firms. Based in the capital, it gives the 368 employees 5 per cent of their salary (up to £2,500) for “life-enhancing training”, from leadership courses to swimming lessons. Other benefits include private medical care.
Full company profiles coming soon
Alzheimer's Society
Awin
Bella Italia
Benefex
Blackstone
BrewDog PLC
CFC Underwriting
Churchill Estates Management
Churchill Retirement Living
Citation
CLS
Connect Catering Ltd
Costello Medical Consulting Ltd
Coty
Croda
Croud
FGH Security Ltd
HE Simm
Health Assured Ltd
IG Group
King
Learning Curve Group
Manning Gottlieb OMD
Moat Homes
Mowgli Street Food Ltd
Octopus Energy
OneFamily
Rocksteady Studios
Rokstone Group Ltd
Sigma Connected
Tails.com
The Edwin Group
The Inn Collection Group
the7stars UK Limited
Thomas Franks
Travel Counsellors
Vorboss
XPS Pensions Group
Full company profiles coming soon
11 Investments
Abbott Risk Consulting Ltd
Accolite Digital
AEW Architects
Agria Pet Insurance
AKA Promotions
Alltruck PLC
Ancoris
Anglia Components Ltd
Apadmi
Ashtons Estate Agents
Bishop & Sewell LLP
Bloom Procurement Services
Boult Wade Tennant
Carrington West
Chapel Down
Chartered Management Institute
Citypress
Clarasys
CLOUD NINE
Criteo
David Salisbury Joinery Ltd
Derwent London PLC
easyJet holidays
EMJ
Empiric
Energize Group
Equilibrium Financial Planning LLP
Fayrefield Foods
First Event
Flixmedia Ltd
Go Interiors
Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity (GOSH)
Hamilton Barnes Associates Limited
Henry Schein One UK
Home Instead Ltd
Hooke Highways
Itecco
Landbay Partners Ltd
LCF Law
Leo Burnett
loveholidays
M&DH Insurance Services Ltd
Macular Society
Magnetic
Matrix
mkodo
Morelli Group Limited
MRM Global
New Street Consulting Group
NextWave Consulting
Nockolds Solicitors Ltd
OnTheMarket
Organix Brands Ltd
Oscar
Paddle
Pall Mall Medical
PCE Ltd
Pearson Ham Group
Porter Novelli
Purdicom
Quooker UK Ltd
Richmond Hill Hotel
SEC Newgate
Setfords
SiXworks
Smart Energy
Stenn Technologies
Superior Care
Thakeham Group
The Goring
The Grand, York
Retail Trust
Torsion Group
Venari Group Ltd
VIOOH
Watson Ramsbottom Solicitors
Wilson Wright LLP
Wilton & Bain Ltd
WPR
Wunderkind Technologies UK Ltd
Xalient Holdings Limited
Yü Energy
Very Big Organisations
5 Squirrels Ltd
Albion Nord Limited
Alexander Grace Ltd
Allison + Partners
ALTO MSSP Ltd
Appetite for Business Ltd
Arthur
Artiq
Autolomous
Barrows Global
Better Placed Ltd
Big Bite Creative Ltd
Boost Drinks
BOSS Professional Services
Bountiful Cow ltd
Bricklane Technologies Ltd
Business Design Centre
Career Legal
Catch Comms
Cedar Dean
Centre for Progressive Poicy
Chorus
Claritas Tax
Cream
Designate Communications Ltd
DeskLodge
Digital Radish
East Anglian Air Ambulance
Electra Learning
Empirisys Ltd
Fintelligent Search Ltd
Firethorn Trust
Five by Five
Fresh Air Production
Glenhawk
GrowUp Farms
H3O Digital
Halkin Management Company Ltd
Household Design
Howell Technology Group
ibex gale limited
Invisible Systems
isobel Advertising
Kingston Barnes
Leaders in Care Recruitment
Lemongrass Marketing
Liddys Solicitors Ltd
Lucky Saint
Marble LDN
Masentó Ltd
Measurelab
Medilink North of England Limited
Mesh Energy
Mobilise Cloud Services
MOJU LTD
Mr. President
NewRiver REIT ( UK) Ltd
Nexus Search
Office Space in Town
Olsam
Olympus Power Ltd
Oxford Cannabinoid Technologies Holdings plc
Pertemps Professional Recruitment Ltd
Pi Consulting UK Ltd
Pimfa
Plan A Consultants
Precision Card Services
r10 Consulting
Re-flow
Sacla
Samuel Knight International
Spike Global
SportsPro Media
Staffbase UK Ltd
SunGod
SWC Partnership
Tapestry Compliance
TGP International
The Collective Dairy
tml Partners
Tribera Limited
Tucker Stone Ltd
Uncommon
Virtual Sales Team
We Are Collider
Zestec Asset Management
ZZPS LIMITED
Big Organisations
250-1,999 Employees
MEDIUM Organisations
50-249 Employees
2,000+ Employees
SMALL Organisations
10-49 Employees