It’s always hard to keep up with the Joneses and this one in particular. The financial services firm has fought off stiff competition to hold on to the No 2 spot for the second year in a row by continuing to provide an outstanding workplace for its employees. The company, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, gets 15 top scores and ranks first for Leadership, My Company and Personal Growth.

Hours of work matter less than results at the firm. When Ian Kenwright, a financial adviser in Poole, Dorset, was preparing his business plan for 2008 he incorporated the fact that he wanted to be able to pick up his children from school at 3.30pm.

“I didn’t have to ask anyone’s permission or get it signed off because I am responsible for my results and activity and the success of my branch,” Kenwright says. “I have been able to plan my days and hours accordingly and it’s great that the company has supported me in this.”

Workers are excited about where the organisation is going, winning the firm a top 87% positive score. They believe they can make a valuable contribution to its success (88%) and are inspired by UK head, Tim Kirley (86%), who wins our special Leadership award.

Staff benefit from good training (85%, a top score) and the firm provides career maps, mentors and guidance to help staff navigate the many opportunities on offer including external courses.

Kirley and managing partner, Jim Weddle, communicate with staff through letters, videos, direct talks and information posted on the internet and intranet. Employees say they run the company on sound moral principles (93%) and that senior managers follow suit by living the values of the organisation (91%).

Managers share important information with employees (83%) and regularly express their appreciation for a job well done (80%).

Staff members say they are stimulated by their work (85%) and are proud to work for the company (90%).

Benefits include share options, profit-related pay, childcare vouchers, discounts on health club membership and a contributory pension.

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