HUNTER ADAMS PEOPLE are asked to go through a lot of steps, but that's no bad thing. This Aberdeen-based human resources consultancy keeps 72 employees fit by running a “pedometer challenge” to encourage them to move more. The business was founded in 2011 and has offices in London and Edinburgh. Its people feel a healthy sense of Wellbeing (the best-ranked factor, with a top-10 positive score of 81%). A social committee puts together a range of events, several focused on keeping the team in shape, so people have run 10km races, kayaked for 96 miles, walked hills and trekked up Mount Kilimanjaro. The new entry to our list helps other firms reduce employee turnover — in one case from 60% to zero — provides human resources specialists to cover periods of change such as sickness or maternity leave, and manages HR for small and medium-size enterprises. Business is growing steadily and 36 employees joined in the past year. It's a relaxed place, with a mixture of part-time work, regular office hours and hours to match the needs of clients, so nobody's health suffers (91%) and there is a happy balance with home life (82%). The business runs “working smarter” courses to help people manage time more effectively, which increases productivity and helps reduce pressure levels and stops jobs interfering with other responsibilities (both 83%). Colleagues give each other energy (84%), getting together at “town hall” meetings every three months, with business updates and workshops. The firm funds a summer barbecue. to which families are invited, and a Christmas party. Dean Hunter, the founding managing director, runs things on a sound moral basis (92%) and senior managers reflect company principles (91%) including quality, integrity, promoting innovation and a strong commercial focus. www.hunteradams.co.uk
