HITACHI IS NOT just about televisions, as new recruits find out during their two-day induction. The company, which was founded more than a century ago by Namihei Odaira in the city it is named after, makes everything from trains and power stations to medical technology and plant machinery, and is separated into several divisions, including financial services. One cog in this machine is Hitachi Capital (UK), which makes 3% of the overall business's revenue. Since its establishment in 1982, the organisation has expanded to provide accounting for 650,000 consumers, offering specialist money management to more than 5,000 companies and looking after about 45,000 fleet vehicles. The firm, based in Staines-upon-Thames, employs 868 people at seven sites across the country, in the south, Yorkshire and the West Midlands. It makes the list at the first time of asking, reflecting its efforts to connect with its workforce. Last year, in response to feedback from staff, the company set up engagement forums at all of its sites, and it introduced recognition awards. There have also been several improvements to benefits as a result, including a bonus for mums returning from maternity leave. Almost 40% of employees have been on the payroll for five or more years. They believe they can make a valuable contribution to the success of the organisation (a positive score of 84%) and say that they love being there (76%). Managers are making a big impact on job satisfaction: not only can they be confided in when things are going badly (79%), they care about how satisfied workers are in their roles (74%).A new flexible hours policy is open to everyone, irrespective of whether they qualify legally, and sabbaticals are now possible for those who want time to pursue a personal ambition. Our survey finds that people's duties don't interfere with responsibilities at home (68%), or harm their health (76%). The firm, which has launched two leadership qualifications in partnership with the University of Worcester business school, is run on strong principles, say staff (78%), who know exactly what is expected of them (75%). It is eyeing up a move into European markets, and workers are excited about the organisation's future (79%). www.hitachicapital.co.uk
