THE BUSINESS OF MAXIMUS is employment: it is contracted by the Department for Work and Pensions to help people find jobs, operating across London and the southeast. The American company has 288 UK employees at 26 sites, including a head office in Exeter. Last October, it took over the contract to assess the fitness of benefits claimants to work. Staff believe they can make a valuable contribution (an 84% positive score) and say that what's expected of them is made completely clear (76%). Chris Blackwell, the managing director, is proof that the firm promotes internally where it can. He started as an employment consultant 12 years ago. Last year 70% of all promotions were internal. Blackwell has also introduced a programme for future leaders which includes mentoring. Employees agree that managers help them fulfil their potential (69%). Each quarter, the best performing employees are taken for a meal with Blackwell and other senior leaders. Staff say that Blackwell runs the company based on sound moral principles (75%). Last year, a complete review and overhaul of how it delivers services was carried out, with input sought across all areas of the business. An employee forum meets regularly to discuss what's important to their teams. Ideas implemented so far include the use of headsets for telephone calls, payslips sent via email, and train season ticket loans. Everyone had a pay rise last year, and staff receive bonuses for good performance. When it comes to being happy with their pay and benefits, they only score this question 50%. Employees are more positive when it comes to their work-life balance. They say that their jobs don't interfere with their responsibilities at home (72%, a top-20 score), while their health is not suffering because of work (75%). MAXIMUS staff say the company makes a positive difference (77%) and has a strong social conscience (74%). The nature of the firm's work means that employees are engaged in their local communities. www.maximusuk.co.uk
