Taking risks and working with clients from the moment they begin their career, employees at Sapient aren't hidden away in the back office for long. The business innovation consulting firm that specialises in planning, designing, implementing and managing information technology also improves business performance — for both clients and staff alike. The firm, whose global clients include Avis, BP and the Hilton group allows employees the autonomy that can lead to rapid career growth and recognition. "We give people an environment where they can be the best. There is no limit," says managing director Mike Reid. "The more you do the better you get, there are examples here of people who came in as an associate and, five years later, ended up directors." Employees agree and they give a positive score of 79% for good work being consistently recognised, which ranks Sapient 11th on this measure. It is also good for personal growth and staff believe they can make a difference (both 82%, with just four companies scoring better on the latter). Marcos Kurowski joined Sapient six years ago from university and is now director of technology. "When I first joined I thought I would probably do this for two years, but the thing that has kept me here is the limitless opportunity: every day, week, month, I am pushing myself to the next level," he says. The firm's core values of openness, relationships, client-focused delivery, creativity, development of its people and leadership seem to be key to its success. Staff say senior managers live the values of the organisation (81%) and the leader runs it on sound principles (83%), both top 10 scores. The firm has all the usual newsletters, the intranet, e-mail, voicemail and business meetings, but its strength is in encouraging everyone to share their ideas and concerns. "It is hard to get your head around, an associate who has been here six months having the freedom to challenge a vice-president," says senior associate in hiring, Adam Metherell. "It's about adding value, people really value your input." Our survey substantiates Metherell's claims; there are high positive scores for staff feeling involved at work (80%), open and honest managers (81%) and for recommending Sapient to others as an employer (83%).