A leap of 37 places up our list this year speaks volumes for the way leading business law firm Olswang treats its 580 employees. Staff at the London and Reading-based firm say it is run on strong values and principles, giving a 71% positive score. They believe that colleagues go out of their way to help one another (75%) and are proud to work for the organisation (80%). More than half of Olswang employees earn at least £55,000, and everyone has performance-related pay. There is private healthcare and dental cover for the entire workforce, as well as childcare vouchers and life assurance. Annual health screenings are supported by an occupational health programme and the firm's own doctor. Subsidised gym membership and free massages are also available. Employees agree that they are not so under pressure that it affects their performance or their concentration (both 72%) and say their health is not suffering because of work (75%). A Random Acts of Kindness programme allows staff to expect the unexpected, such as free breakfasts or lunch, as well as other free services such as shoe shining, manicures or head massages. Employees say they are happy with their salary and benefits (67%) and feel they are paid fairly for what they do relative to others within the organisation (66%). Personal development needs are met with on-the-job learning, and management and leadership training. The firm is in the process of developing an Olswang management course, which can be topped up to an MBA. Staff do not find their jobs boring (70%), say that work is stimulating (75%) and think their careers are good for their personal growth (77%). A recycled stationery scheme and switch-off campaign have been introduced, fair trade goods with biodegradable packaging are available in the canteen and the company employs green taxi firms. Olswang also recycles about 77% of its waste. The company became a founding member of Camden's Climate Change Alliance in order to achieve emission reduction targets, and to support other businesses in their endeavours to do the same. Its staff are also encouraged to spend more than three hours per month undertaking pro bono and volunteering activities. Employees believe their managers run the organisation based on sound moral principles (69%), say that profit is not the only thing driving the business (61%), and think that Olswang does a lot to protect the environment (81%, a score bettered by just four other companies). Managers meet with their teams regularly to provide consistent support and communication. Staff say they have confidence in the leadership skills of their managers (75%), that their leaders regularly express appreciation for good work (72%), and say that teams and colleagues care for one another (81%). With a hefty social budget of £600,000, Olswang employees enjoy company weekends abroad and regular team-building events. They say they love working for the organisation (73%) and agree that their colleagues are fun (80%).
