For staff at Faber Maunsell the world is their oyster. As a subsidiary of California-based Aecom Technology Corporation, staff development at the firm can involve an international transfer and employees are currently working in America, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East and China. Based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, Faber Maunsell's engineers and planners are currently involved in projects that range from assessing the potential environmental impact of harnessing energy from Scotland's marine environment to working on a scheme to restore the historic and natural landscape in the Shorne area of Kent. Staff say they believe that the company makes a real difference to people's lives, earning it a 77% positive score, a top 20 result. And they applaud its green credentials (74%). The company's training academy provides a framework for advancement through the firm with additional leadership and graduate training programmes on offer. Continuous professional development is encouraged through financial support and time off, and employees achieving membership of a recognised institution receive financial rewards. Staff can see the potential of working here (79%) and think the experience they gain is valuable for their future (78%). Chief executive Ken Dalton ensures people know who he is and what the business is about by meeting new recruits, leading the annual conference and visiting all 29 offices around the country each year. Employees believe he runs the firm on sound moral principles (78%) and feel their job is secure (80%). Almost 10% of the 2,658-strong workforce have been with the firm for more than 15 years and that loyalty and commitment is recognised with long service awards, while good performance is also financially rewarded. All permanent staff are given an additional day off for their birthday and this year Faber Maunsell is increasing maternity pay to 20 weeks at 90% and 19 weeks at the statutory minimum. There are flexible working options and three-year career breaks for women following the birth or adoption of a child. Staff can buy additional benefits at discounted rates such as critical illness cover, life assurance and childcare vouchers. Employees say theirs is a company that puts health and safety high on the agenda (87%) and where colleagues care a lot about each other (81%). They would strongly recommend it as a place to work (a 78% positive score).