One of the UK's largest pension and investment companies is keen to invest in its own workforce. Eight years ago, Scottish Equitable, founded as a mutual society in 1831, joined one of the world's largest insurers, the Dutch Aegon Group. In 1999, Aegon UK was formed as a holding company for the financial services firm, and Graham Dumble, an employee since 1977, became managing director. The Aegon motto is to “respect people, make money and have fun”, and this has been developed in two ways at the Edinburgh-based firm, which sells its products through independent financial advisers and has 35 branches around the country. Scottish Equitable gives its staff freedom to choose their hours and benefits. The firm pays course and examination fees for professional qualifications, and also covers the cost of materials. Everyone has regular assessments, which may be followed by discretionary bonuses of up to 10%. Having fun is important too, and social events have included white-water rafting and quiz nights. Almost four in five employees say the facilities contribute to a good working environment, and the firm offers an on-site fitness centre in Edinburgh, homeopathy and reflexology. “There is tremendous respect for individuals,” one employee said.