GREAT Places Housing Group is one of Britain’s greatest places to work, according to a highly respected business survey.
The Manchester-based housing association has been rated 58th in the annual Sunday Times Top 100 Companies list, three places higher than last year’s position of 61st.
Chief executive Stephen Porter today paid tribute to Great Places’ “great people” - the employees whose honest thoughts and feelings were analysed by experts.
Results are based on an in-depth and strictly anonymous survey of all employees, as well as company facts and figures.
Staff are questioned on a range of issues such as their employer’s values and principles, what it’s like to work with their colleagues and managers, and how motivated and positive they feel about work.
Great Places is absolutely delighted with the honour that has recognised its particular strengths in giving something back to communities, offering fair pay and good benefits and inspiring pride among employees.
Results were announced at an award ceremony in London. Chief executive, Stephen Porter, said: “We’re thrilled that we have been rated so highly, especially as it’s our own staff who put us up there.
“They are the people who know us best, and experience the difference we make for the communities we serve, every day. Any success we achieve is always down to those who work for us. I am so proud of our great people.”
Great Places works in 30 council areas, on a wide range of housing, regeneration and community development projects.
The group prides itself on offering flexible working and great benefits for staff such as flexitime without core hours and home working.
As well as a place on the list, Great Places has been given a Best Companies accreditation.
What the survey said: Some key responses from Great Places employees.
- 70% believe profits and budget are not the only things driving the organisation.
- 76% feel Great Places does its bit for the environment.
- 78% believe the group is run on strong moral principles.
- 95% say staff really care about providing a great service.
- 72% are excited about the future of the organisation.
- 72% say managers regularly express their appreciation when they do a good job.
- 76% say their job is an important part of who they are.
- 73% say work isn’t boring.
- 79% say work is a big part of their lives.