CA'S CHEERY STAFF go to work with a spring in their step thanks to the fair deal the firm offers them and the strong relationships employees have with management. The icing on the cake comes from the working environment. "The building is set within the most stunningly beautiful grounds, which are very well maintained," says one employee. "Driving through the gates and seeing the beauty of our setting makes me smile without fail, every morning." The lush 200 acres surrounding CA's Berkshire headquarters are home to a 16th-century manor house, vegetable gardens, a moat and a Montessori childcare centre. There is also a gym and staff restaurant on site. Employees at CA, which is one of the world's largest IT management software providers, say they find work stimulating (76% positive, ranking the company 15th) and it is an important part of who they are (75%). Nearly half of the 771-strong workforce earns more than £55,000, with a salesperson earning about £65,000. Everyone is entitled to 25 days' annual leave, regardless of seniority. Private healthcare, dental insurance and life assurance are other perks. Its staff — who have notched up an average of seven years at CA — are happy with their pay and benefits, giving a positive score of 66%. They believe they are paid fairly in comparison to colleagues in the organisation (59%) as well as compared to others in similar companies (62%), with both scores ranking CA in the top half of firms on our list. An 80% score shows employees believe they can make a valuable contribution to the success of the organisation, and they say what is expected of them is made completely clear (74%). Achievements are rewarded with performance-related pay as well as other gestures such as staff being presented with holiday vouchers or champagne at the quarterly awards ceremony. Ideas which have been put into motion in the past include a car valet service, a book exchange group and a social club. Managers regularly express their appreciation of a good job (74%), and staff feel that their new ideas are valued by their employer (73%). Chris Miller, the head of the UK operation, has been at the helm for 2 years, and keeps employees up to date with business news through a blog in a monthly newsletter. The workforce reports that he runs CA on sound moral principles, earning the question a 77% result. Cross-departmental sports events in the office grounds foster camaraderie. Sporty types can get together at lunchtime or after work to play football, cricket or rounders. There are also tennis, walking and running clubs. Managers are highly regarded by employees, who say they speak openly and honestly (77%). The management academy, accessible through an in-house online learning management system, ensures people are trained appropriately for their roles, and the company also supports them in studying for external management qualifications. Many of the internal programmes involve 360-degree appraisals so managers can learn from feedback. Staff say they can make a difference in the organisation (a 77% positive score). www.ca.com/gb