3

Cultivating talent

xGEG_cover.indd 3 17/10/2013 17:06 – Recruitment agency – Online job board – The right candidate for your role

+44 (0)20 7496 8370 [email protected] www.ribaappointments.com

RIBA_Appointments_Jigsaw_advert_260x175.indd 1 17/10/2013 13:33

002_GEG251013.indd 1 17/10/2013 13:58 Sowing the seeds

Slowly, but surely, the industry is getting back on its feet after five years in recession. And for many firms that means, for the first time in recent memory, turning their sights from survival to growth. Over the past few months, more and more construction companies have started hiring again in earnest. And when it comes to attracting talented staff to deliver a growing roster of projects, the companies in this year’s Building Good Employer Guide are sure to have a strong head start over their peers. The companies in this year’s guide range from firms with fewer than 30 staff to those with more than 2,000. However, they have in common the fact that they have continued to invest admirably in their employees during the industry’s darker days – despite tough pressures on spending. These efforts – whether they be direct financial benefits, such as enhanced maternity and paternity pay, or These companies measures such as training and career opportunities – have been enthusiastically deserve endorsed by the companies’ staff, as shown by the impressive results of the recognition for anonymous employee satisfaction surveys outlined over the coming pages. Now, as growth starts to return to the sector, this puts the companies in the the investment best possible position to capitalise on the loyalty of existing staff. And, by they are making following the approach to their workforces that they have, the companies have in the industry’s also marked themselves out as leading the pack in construction when it comes to future being an attractive destination for potential new recruits. These companies, however, are not only placing their own businesses in a strong position. Perhaps even more importantly, they deserve recognition for the investment they are making in the industry’s future. Whether it’s through stand-out benefits packages, offering enviable flexibility over working patterns, or exceptional commitment to professional development, the companies in this year’s guide are presenting the industry as a first-class career option for today’s school, college and university students. They are an example to their peers in the industry, and should be congratulated for the working environments that they have created and continue to nurture.

Sarah Richardson, editor

Editor Sarah Richardson Design and illustrations Astrid Kogler Sub-editors Chloë McCulloch, Deborah Duke Group telesales manager Linda Cook Advertising production Chris Langford Reprographics CC Media Group Printed Wyndeham Group

Published by UBM Built Environment Ludgate House, 245 Blackfriars Road London SE1 9UY

xGEG_leaderCMv2.indd 3 17/10/2013 15:44 Contents

6 Seeds of contentment

Despite coming through some of the toughest years for the construction market, the best employers have still found a way to develop their staff. Here’s how …

10 Small in size, big on ideas

SMEs may not be able to afford the most expensive benefi ts package but their smaller budgets have led to some inventive ways of attracting talent

12 Methodology

How this year’s results were obtained

13 The good employers

Our guide to what construction’s most nurturing companies are offering employees

xGEG_winners_contentsddv1.indd 4 17/10/2013 17:03 good employer guide 2013 / 5 The Winners

Overall 2013

Make Architectural practice Make stands out as a model employer that should serve as an example to fi rms across the industry. The company, which is 100% employee owned, received an outstanding set of responses to the Good Employer Guide survey from its staff, who are clear that the practice is a fantastic place to work for both the benefi ts 1 they receive now and the investment in their future. Make offers generous training provision and a benefi ts package that is exceptionally tailored to the needs of its employees. Its commitment also reaches far beyond its own staff, who are encouraged to mentor disadvantaged state school pupils who want to study architecture.

Max Fordham Max Fordham has sought over the past year to build on its third placing in last year’s guide by going even further to ensure it is adopting the practices that really matter to its staff. Following discussion with employees, the engineer has raised its graduate starting rate, and it has also had its training schemes accredited by the IMechE, CIBSE and IET. The 2 company was rated particularly highly among its staff for its considered approach to tough market conditions, and for the fl exible working practices it offers employees.

Hawkins\Brown Architect Hawkins\Brown is a beacon for diversity in the industry, with nearly half of its staff female and more than a third from a non-white ethnic background. The practice has grown considerably since it was created 25 years ago – it hired 30 more architects in 2012 alone – but it has continued to maintain a friendly working environment, and has 3 been rewarded by high praise from staff in its survey, particularly over the company’s atmosphere and its approach to the current market.

Buro Four Consultant Buro Four is a company that clearly promotes work/life balance among its staff, who, as shown by its impressive staff survey, hold it in high regard for doing so. It also provides staff with an outstanding array of benefi ts, and continues to offer one of the industry’s best maternity packages with an additional 20% of salary added for six 4 months after a mother’s return to work. The company is also now launching a volunteering programme for its staff, giving them a day a year to participate in charity work.

SCS Group With fewer than 25 staff, SCS may be a small company, but its attitude towards its employees outpaces that of many of its larger counterparts. The contractor has an enlightened approach to fl exible working, and is partly employee owned, enabling workers to benefi t from future growth in the business. Although the company has had to make 5 diffi cult decisions in recession, including pay freezes, its staff have strong support for the leadership – which is testament to the effort and time put into communication across the company.

xGEG_winners_contentsddv1.indd 5 24/10/2013 15:01 Seeds of contentment Despite the financial drought, many businesses have still found a way to nurture their best talent. Adam Branson looks at what the best companies are doing, and how

xGEG_adamfeatureddcmv2.indd 6 17/10/2013 16:10 good employer guide 2013 / 7

he business environment of seen a small but signifi cant improvement the last fi ve years has been the in the retention rates being achieved by the toughest the current generation 75 fi rms in the guide. Last year the fi rms of construction bosses will likely reported an average staff turnover rate of ever have to deal with. Simply 13%, compared with 12% this year. Given keepingT fi rms going has been a huge the high number of architecture practices challenge for directors and chief executives, and consultancies in the guide, those and with so many fi res to fi ght they could retention rates are particularly encouraging, arguably have been forgiven for putting the considering the highly mobile skills that are creation of a rewarding and stimulating the bread and butter of such companies. working life for their employees towards the In order to explain such relatively low bottom of their ‘to do’ list. turnover rates one needs to consider not However, as this year’s iteration of just those factors that can be quantifi ed, but Building’s Good Employer Guide so clearly A STRIKINGLY LARGE also softer measures. The testimonies that shows, many leaders of construction MAJORITY OF FIRMS ALLOW accompanied fi rms’ submissions – verifi ed companies have not seen benefi ts as a by anonymous staff surveys – make it clear cuttable extra, but instead worked hard to STAFF TO WORK FLEXIBLY, that companies in the guide have worked ensure that staff are able to enjoy a healthy WITH 57 FIRMS STATING extremely hard to keep staff informed about work-life balance, and to invest in training THAT ALL EMPLOYEES ARE their ongoing fi nancial performance and and career development. resulting business decisions. Company after The testimonies that accompanied fi rms’ ENTITLED TO FLEXIBLE company reported that they hold regular entry forms make clear that this is partly WORKING business updates, often involving chief down to an altruistic philosophy – the executives or senior directors travelling to responsibility that many companies feel for regional offi ces in order to take questions their employees’ wellbeing and livelihoods in person. Many fi rms also said that they comes across strongly – but it is also a sectors operate as partnerships or use operate an open door policy, encouraging product of sound business thinking. After some other form of employee ownership, staff to come to senior management with all, if fi rms want to retain talented staff perhaps their continuing strong presence any concerns, in an attempt to prevent they need to show that they appreciate shouldn’t be so surprising. However, other anxiety. Such measures may be easy to employees’ skills and hard graft. And as parts of the industry are well-represented implement when there is good news to workloads start to pick up and many fi rms too, with contractors coming in third impart; less so when companies face a tough Seeds of across the industry are starting to hire again, with 12 companies making the grade, and market and equally tough choices. this investment looks set to reap dividends – engineering fi rms with eight. The rest of the It is also clear that fi rms in the guide both in terms of fostering loyalty in existing list is made up of a myriad fi rms including are switched on to policies that cost little staff and in attracting more talent. product manufacturers, housebuilders and to implement – indeed, may even save So which fi rms present the most attractive developers. money – but that do require a high degree of proposition? What do they have in common, Of course, any company that aspires to trust in their employees and a progressive contentment and how can their success be explained? be a good employer keeps a keen eye on attitude from management. For instance, a As in previous years, this year’s guide is its staff turnover rate: while some churn in strikingly large majority of fi rms allow staff dominated by architects and consultants, staffi ng is inevitable, staff retention is the to work fl exibly, with 57 fi rms stating that all with 23 and 20 entries respectively. Given clearest indicator that employees are happy employees are entitled to take advantage of how many practices and fi rms in those in their working lives. Here, the last year has fl exible working and a further 16 saying »

xGEG_adamfeatureddcmv2.indd 7 17/10/2013 16:10 8 / good employer guide 2013

» that some staff were entitled to the benefit. A similarly encouraging attitude is to be found when it comes to the right of staff to take a sabbatical or career break. In total, 44 firms said that such opportunities were available to all staff, compared with 15 that reported some staff were able to take a career break and just 16 that said that no such entitlements were available. Allowing for such flexibility can of course be of benefit to employers too, especially when keeping the wage bill under control is an imperative, but it also poses risks for business continuity. With many clients regarding their relationship with individual consultants or architects as equally important as their relationship with a company, it is encouraging that so many employers take such an enlightened attitude given that the unavailability of a key member of staff could have a direct impact on the bottom line. A similarly farsighted attitude can be found when it comes to training and skills development. At a time when many firms have been struggling to maintain cashflow it would be all too easy to let training days, which after all remove employees from fee-earning work, slide. However, that is not the case with the 75 firms featured in this year’s guide. While the average number of hours spent on training has declined marginally from 46 to 44, the amount

xGEG_adamfeatureddcmv2.indd 8 17/10/2013 16:10 of time dedicated to skills development is still substantially up on two years ago, when the equivalent fi gure was 38. It is also clear that companies are keen to expand their employees’ horizons. Remarkably given that many of the companies in the guide are SMEs with a small or non-existent international presence, a clear majority off er staff the opportunity to work abroad. In total 43 out of the 75 said that they off er at least some staff the opportunity to work outside of the UK (24 said that some staff were off ered such opportunities and 19 said the off er was extended to all staff ), compared with 32 that said that employees’ opportunities were limited to the UK. 28 fi rms off er it to some employees, compared Again, considering the nature of the with just nine that don’t off er it at all. Similarly expensive, maternity and paternity rights were hard won by employees and across the economy many companies continue to REMARKABLY GIVEN THAT complain about the burden they place on MANY OF THE COMPANIES business. However, it is clear that companies IN THE GUIDE ARE SMES, A in the guide often go above and beyond the legal minimum. In total, 34 fi rms said that they CLEAR MAJORITY OFFER off er more than the statutory minimum for STAFF THE OPPORTUNITY TO maternity leave, and 35 said they did the same for new fathers. Enhanced paternity rights are WORK ABROAD an easy win for employers because extending them beyond the statutory minimum is not too disruptive. Enhanced maternity benefi ts companies that made the guide perhaps this are more long term and expensive, but they shouldn’t be too surprising. As has already do seem to help attract and retain women: the been noted, architects’ and consultants’ average number of women employed by the 75 skills travel well – the skills required to build a top employers in non-administrative roles is school in the UK are much the same as those 26 (18%), whereas women make up just 11% of required to do the same job in Bahrain. And in the UK’s construction workforce, according to order to keep order books fi lled and maintain charity Be Onsite. revenues, many companies have been seeking Finally, it is abundantly evident that the work overseas. companies in this year’s Building Good More prosaic benefi ts are also being Employer Guide remain a sociable and maintained, although it is clear from gregarious bunch. The social activities provided companies’ own testimonies that they are range from evenings in the pub to sporting thinking seriously about which benefi ts activities from football to skiing to gliding. are highly valued by their staff . In an They are equally active when it comes to their attempt to cut costs while at the same time charitable concerns, with teams taking in part maintaining loyalty, some companies have in everything from marathons to climbs of consulted staff on which benefi ts they fi nd distant peaks, and companies giving both to most useful. However, incentives such as charities that have a direct link to construction company mobiles, laptops and cars remain and housing and to those addressing commonplace, and free or subsidised gym concerns important to their local and wider memberships are routine. communities. Even some relatively expensive benefi ts So at a time when, despite the positive are still common among employers in the economic indicators, fi rms are still under guide. The right to private healthcare is still great pressure, it is heartening to see so many off ered to many people employed by the 75 companies that continue to believe – and act on companies. A clear majority of fi rms – 39 – the belief – that their employees remain their off er the benefi t to all employees. A further greatest asset.

xGEG_adamfeatureddcmv2.indd 9 17/10/2013 16:11 Position where there are sunny career prospects

Place with room for skills to grow

Small in size big on ideas SMEs may not offer the fullest hen managers complain about their employees, it CASE STUDY: DBK FUTURES range of employee benefi ts and makes my blood boil,” says they certainly can’t sustain huge Allan Meek, managing Birmingham-based consultant DBK is HR departments, but these director of Cardiff -based one of the high performers in this year’s ‘SMEW contractor SCS Group, with emphasis. Good Employer Guide. The judges were restrictions can in fact make “Because I don’t think anyone goes to work to impressed with the enhanced benefi ts it them very attractive employers. do a bad job.” offers – including pension contributions Meek is discussing how SCS’ culture of up to 5% – and its savvy approach to Iain Withers examines how looking after and valuing its staff – including engaging with staff. Staff are given a these lean, agile and inventive off ering an enticing package of benefi ts personal and professional development including healthcare, pension contributions, review twice a year, offered fl exible companies have done so well in profi t share bonuses, shares, fl exible working working, paid-for RICS subscriptions this year’s guide and free gym or boxing club membership – and an extra day’s holiday a year if they marks it out from many of its competitors, have no sick days. Young up-and-coming whose management he claims undervalue staff staff are encouraged to engage through and often snipe about them. the fi rm’s DBK Futures initiative, where SCS’ more enlightened approach has earned younger employees are elected from each it a place in this year’s Good Employer Guide. offi ce to a board that discusses issues And one of the most interesting aspects of this including business development and year’s roll-call is that SCS is joined by a great training and reports into the main board, many other SMEs. Over 90% of the list this year as well as setting up its own social events. are SMEs – defi ned as fi rms employing fewer The fi rm is also part of the Investor than 250 staff . in People scheme. Managing partner This is partly because there are more SMEs Duncan Berry says communication is in the market, due to a spate of start-ups “key”, as is ensuring “as we get bigger we founded by people leaving bigger fi rms don’t become corporate”. voluntarily or through redundancy during the

xGEG2013_featurecmddv2.indd 10 17/10/2013 16:08 good employer guide 2013 / 11

Position where there are sunny career prospects

If you were larger you might have to be more profit driven [...] We’re 80-strong and we really like that size as you can keep a culture of a family PETER MURRAY, STANTON WILLIAMS

past few diffi cult years. But Meek and his Peter Murray, director of Stanton Williams, Overcoming challenges contemporaries at other SMEs – including agrees a small size can help facilitate better Off ering benefi ts, however, can prove expensive. consultants Buro Four, Jackson Coles and DBK communication. The architectural practice has Meek admits SCS had to make some tough and architect Stanton Williams – argue SMEs an initiative where directors take new starters decisions when the recession hit. “We lost about also have innate advantages that have helped for lunch when they join and “keep in close 10 staff over two years,” he says. “For us to then them secure a place in this year’s Good contact with them” thereafter. “These things are say we’re keeping all these benefi ts was a really Employer Guide. easier when you are this size,” he says. “If you diffi cult choice – but we decided to stick with the These include being lean enough to engage were larger you might have to be more profi t benefi ts because we believed in it.” and communicate more closely with staff and driven [...] We’re 80-strong and we really like Duncan Berry, managing partner of DBK, agile enough to ditch systems or mix things that size as you can keep a culture of a family.” agrees the recession proved diffi cult for his up when they’re not working. But even these Their size also allows smaller businesses to be company but it also decided to stick with enlightened SMEs acknowledge there are more agile in off ering benefi ts to staff . SCS’ generous benefi ts. “Our main asset is people, challenges to off ering generous benefi ts in Meek gives the example of the off er of free full stop,” he says. “We have to make sure we straitened times, particularly when they don’t boxing club membership to staff as an example look after them.” have the fi nancial fi repower of larger rivals. So of a benefi t off ered by management “on a Tighter budgets mean SMEs have to be savvy how do they do it? And what can companies whim”, which a “more bureaucratic larger” about the benefi ts they invest in. Roberts says large and small learn from them? rival may not have been able to off er at short Buro Four puts an emphasis on training courses notice. It has proved very successful, with for staff , including CPD programmes, but they SMEs: a natural advantage? eight sign ups and participants’ “self-esteem are careful to get feedback from employees on SMEs assert that they are naturally better boosted massively,” Meek says. “Although there what’s working out. “There’s an issue around placed to engage with their staff because of were a few people coming into the offi ce with economy of scale when you have fewer staff ,” their smaller size. Put simply, management black eyes!” he says. “If something is not working – such as can meet a greater proportion of staff and staff Murray says the activity schedule at Stanton a training course we’re doing – we need to move in turn can feel more tied in to the goals of Williams is “constantly changing” to keep staff on to something else.” management, so the argument goes. engaged, with current highlights including The SMEs also argue that part of the secret to “The biggest advantage of working for an SME inspirational talks by staff , weekly tai chi their success is understanding that not all rather than a corporate is an absence of ‘them classes, and a dragon boat racing team. In a benefi ts have to be costly. SCS, DBK and Buro and us’,” says Richard Jones, senior partner similar vein, Roberts says Buro Four’s offi ce has Four emphasise the importance of fl exible in Jackson Coles. Jones says staff who have held impromptu BBQs over the summer to take working, which costs nothing. SCS’ Meek joined from larger rivals often comment on advantage of the heatwave. describes it as “the biggest thing we do” and his the “greater transparency” at the fi rm, which SME agility can also manifest itself in giving staff can be found working anywhere from their manifests itself in regular communication of staff a greater variety of career opportunities, homes to the local Starbucks. He says a focus the business’ goals to staff , including at an which larger fi rms with more rigid on engaging staff is free and can pay dividends. annual practice-wide meeting where most organisational structures might struggle to off er. SCS runs a regular survey to test staff staff get involved in presentations. “After these Roberts says that Buro Four ensures staff engagement, which includes questions about meetings some people [who have left larger “have opportunities to progress on diff erent whether workers care about the objectives of the fi rms] tell me it’s the fi rst time they’ve had an types of projects” so employees are “not company. “Everyone you speak to in our update like that. It helps them feel they belong pigeon-holed as just the ‘resi person’ or company cares,” he says. “You can’t fake it. It’s to the business.” something like that.” a source of competitive advantage.”

xGEG2013_featurecmddv2.indd 11 17/10/2013 16:08 12 / good employer guide 2013

Methodology

Readers of Building that are eligible to enter Building’s other “Top” tables, such as consultants, contractors, and housebuilders, and other industry firms were invited to take part in the selection process for the Good Employer Guide 2013, through a call for entries published in print and online. Each interested firm was sent a link to an online staff survey to send to all employees, which had to be filled in anonymously by a minimum of 33% of total staff, excluding those who worked in purely support functions such as HR. This survey gauged strength of feeling on the company’s performance in seven key areas: leadership, corporate social responsibility, employees’ opportunity to contribute, working atmosphere, opportunities for smarter working, career progression and the company’s response to current market conditions. Staff were also given the opportunity to provide additional information. Survey responses were sent direct to Building magazine, and not seen by the company in question. Separately, each interested firm was asked to complete an entry form giving the following information:

Number of full-time equivalent UK employees Number of female non-administrative staff Annual staff turnover for 2011 and 2012 Percentage of staff from a non-white ethnic background Average number of training hours per employee per year Maximum number of paid days holiday available to staff per year Private healthcare provision Maternity benefits offered Paternity benefits offered Opportunities offered for flexible working Opportunities offered to work abroad Opportunities offered for sabbaticals and career breaks Details of pension scheme offered

Companies were also asked to provide a 500-word statement in support of their entry, addressing the following areas: stand-out benefits; how the company has adapted to current market conditions; leadership and development; employee engagement; staff wellbeing and the “feel good factor”; and corporate social responsibility, including attitude towards sustainability. Companies were also invited to submit supplementary information, in the form of case studies or testimonials to support their entry. The entries were assessed by a judging panel comprising: Graham Watts, chief executive of the Construction Industry Council, Edward Goodwyn, partner in Pinsent Masons law firm, Sarah Richardson, editor of Building magazine and Chloë McCulloch, brand production manager and former legal editor of Building magazine. The top five firms were identified from a shortlist selected in the first judging round by a weighting system that rewarded firms for the benefits offered under the various entry headings and the strength of endorsement from staff gathered through responses to the survey. The weighting system was adjusted to take account of company demographics – for example, the size of the firm was taken into account when assessing the range of benefits offered, as was the sector in which the company worked. So, for example, a small regional contractor would not be penalised for not offering staff the opportunity to work abroad. Beyond the top five, the firms selected for this year’s guide have been listed in alphabetical order. The guide contains the top 75 companies from the entries received. This has been increased from last year (when the top 50 companies were published) to take account of a higher volume of entries, particularly from SMEs, which the judges believed deserved recognition despite not always having the financial ability to offer benefits that match those of larger counterparts. More than 300 companies registered to be considered for the guide.

key to the symbols*

Number of full-time equivalent UK employees Sabbaticals/career breaks Private healthcare scheme

Maximum number of days holiday Flexible working Enhanced maternity benefits

Training hours Chance to work abroad Enhanced paternity benefits

Pension

Female non-administrative staff Pensions: Comb: combination pension, DCSP: defined contribution stakeholder pension, GPP: group personal pension, MP: money Staff from non-white ethnic background purchase, PP: personal pension. NC: Non contributory, C: Contributory

xGEG_methodologyCMv1.indd 12 17/10/2013 14:12 good employer guide 2013 / 13

AA Projects Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 87 GPP (C) AA Projects has offices in Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, London and Newcastle upon Tyne and is involved in a number 30 days 7% of international projects. The company offers a range of specialist consultancy services including project management, building 48 hours 7% surveying, quantity surveying, facilities management, environmental consultancy and health and safety advice. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“Our Work Preferences Initiative offers staff flexibility in 3 balancing work and home life including the opportunity 2 to purchase additional holidays, work flexible hours or part time, and take sabbaticals to suit their needs” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 8% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Airey Miller Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 33 CP (C) / GPP (C) / PP (C) This multidisciplinary practice started in 1994 as a firm of building surveyors. It specialises in the affordable and social housing sector 30 days 13% and has a client base of over 40 registered social landlords and local authorities. It also works for clients in the healthcare, commercial and 26 hours 9% retail sectors. The practice operates in London and the South-east. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“Our successes have resulted in a number of staff who 2 have progressed through up to three levels of promotion 1 due to the development programme available to all” 0 Staff turnover 2012 13% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Architype Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 54 CP (C) / PP (C) Architype offers a host of services including: architectural and fully integrated design team services, Passivhaus consultancy, whole-life 25 days 41% carbon analysis, and post-occupancy building performance monitoring. It has an office in London and one in Hereford. 48 hours 6% SOME STAFF

Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Architype offers extremely flexible working hours, 2 where employees are responsible for ensuring they complete their 37.5 hours a week” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 13% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

AAProjects-ArchitypeCMddV2AK.indd 13 17/10/2013 14:17 Bld FP template.qxp 17/10/13 11:27 Page 1

ALL SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS REQUIRE THE RIGHT PEOPLE AT THE RIGHT TIME

We can help your project move forward smoothly by sourcing the right staff when you need them.

The construction sector is a wide-ranging and complex environment. At any one time, numerous positions may need filling across a range of skills, levels of seniority and locations. Whether you are looking for temporary or permanent staff, we have the sector specialists and scale of operation to find the right people for every role.

Hays Construction is built on over 50 years of experience. So you can be confident that we are the right choice of expert recruiting partner.

For more information contactcontact LynneLynne Crowe, Business DirectorDirector onon 020020 7259 88278710 oror emailemail [email protected]

hays.co.uk/construction

014_GEG251013.indd 1 17/10/2013 15:25 good employer guide 2013 / 15

Artelia UK Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 137 GPP (C) Artelia UK’s business includes project management, construction management, cost management, engineering, feasibility and health 28 days 13% some staff and safety. Artelia UK’s parent company, the Artelia Group was formed in 2010 following a merger between Coteba and Sogreah, and now has 30 hours 6% offices in over 35 countries. It acquired multidisciplinary professional services consultancy Appleyards in 2012 and made it into the Good Staff rating Employer Guide the same year. 5

4

What they say: 3

“Despite current market conditions, we understand 2 the importance of investing in our people to develop a 1 successful career” 0 Staff turnover 2012 8% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Ashe Construction Key company factS A LL STAFF Contractor 97 GPP (C) / GPP (NC) Ashe manages the design and construction of buildings for public and private sector clients across the UK. It has specialised in education and 25 days 3% healthcare work for the public sector while also building offices, housing, retail units and trade centres for the private sector. It has a design and 48 hours 2% build team, which works across three divisions: main works, special works and repair and maintenance. Founded in 1972, it operates from Staff rating offices in Hertfordshire and Leicestershire. 5

4

What they say: 3

“We strive to provide an environment that promotes 2 the development of staff to reach their full potential, 1 encouraging continuous improvement and innovation” 0 Staff turnover 2012 1% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Astudio Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 23 PP (NC) Astudio has grown rapidly since it was founded six years ago, when it had just four employees, and is now a £1.7m-turnover practice. It won 24 days 42% the accolade of Architectural Practice of the Year at the 2012 Building Awards in part because of its sustainability credentials. Earlier this year 35 hours 30% it opened Astudio Asia, based in Hong Kong, with a target to hit £2m in turnover within two years. It aims to increase its staff to 80 across its Staff rating London and Hong Kong offices by 2017. 5

4

What they say: 3 “Our team develop their skills by doing rather than 2 watching. The practice is a meritocracy based upon ability rather than age or years of service” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 15% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Artelia-Astudio_CMddv2AK.indd 15 17/10/2013 10:26 016_GEG251013.qxp 18/10/13 09:08 Page 1

* = See page 37 for more details

www.peterbrett.com

Looking to recruit quality candidates in your sector?

Building is the leading brand in the construction market, reaching a captive audience, spanning the entire construction spectrum making it the ideal place to recruit quality candidates.

Find your ideal candidate Call us on: 020 7560 4249 good employer guide 2013 / 17

AWW Architects Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 55 GPP (C) AWW is a professional consultancy providing architecture, masterplanning, interior design and space planning across the UK 30 days 17% some staff for over 35 years. It has offices in London, Bristol and Plymouth. Since making the strategic decision at the end of 2012 to explore the 30 hours 8% international market, AWW has been developing opportunities in Nigeria, India and the Philippines. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“Our CPD on technical subjects is brought to life 3 with practice away weekends (Berlin last year) where 2 the latest buildings are visited, reviewed, and argued over in bars” 1

0 Staff turnover 2012 15% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Bailey Partnership Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 65 GPP (C) Consultancy Bailey Partnership offers services that include design, building services engineering, surveying, cost management, project 25 days 8% some staff management and project monitoring. The firm works across a broad spectrum of sectors from commercial to residential, where it has 42 hours 6% experience in affordable housing for local authorities, mixed-use developments and urban regeneration schemes. Staff rating

5

4 What they say: 3 “Regular communication with staff is essential in difficult market conditions. Staff have responded and 2 adapted well, with low levels of staff turnover” 1

0 Staff turnover 2012 5% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Bastows Key company factS A LL STAFF Contractor 28 offered from 2014 Founded in 1919, Bastows is a family-run business that specialises in property restoration and redecoration. It is based in London and works 28 days 0% on a range of projects including residential schemes. It is recognised by Investors in People and the Considerate Contractors Scheme. The firm 62 hours 11% donates one tree for every three tonnes of non-reusable waste materials produced on its projects and works with the Westminster Tree Trust. Staff rating

5 What they say: 4 “We are recognised as Investors In People and have held their Good Practice in Health & Wellbeing award 3 since 2011 in recognition of the care we show for the 2

physical and mental wellbeing of our people” 1

0 Staff turnover 2012 3% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

AWW-Bastow_CMddv2AK.indd 17 17/10/2013 10:29 MJH updated 2013 V3 qxp 10/10/13 14:29 Page 1

 

 

  
  

       

MJH_GEG2013.indd 1 16/10/2013 15:26 good employer guide 2013 / 19

Betteridge & Milsom Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 19 PP (NC) Betteridge & Milsom is a quantity surveyor established for over 20 years, which is based in Canterbury and that works in many sectors including 25 days 6% some staff education, community, healthcare, social housing, development and commercial. Its services include contract administration, employer’s 65 hours 5% agent, cost planning, clerk of works and CDM co-ordination. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “We have a strong leadership programme in place. 2 Every employee is assigned a mentor who supervises and critiques work on a regular basis” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 6% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Bowman Riley Architects Key company factS some STAFF Architect 67 DCSP / GPP (C) Founded in 1968, Bowman Riley operates from Leeds, London and Skipton, North Yorkshire. It is engaged on framework agreements 30 days 20% with Wm Morrison Supermarkets, Esso Petroleum, the University of Bradford, Bradford Metropolitan District council, Land Securities and 58 hours 4% Yorkshire Housing. It has been in the Good Employer Guide since 2009. The practice is currently recruiting. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We nurture emerging talent and recognise our team 3 members’ contribution and dedication by promoting 2 from within and this year have promoted three team members to associate level” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

BRE Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 517 GPP (C)*

The Building Research Establishment carries out research and education some staff programmes into the challenges faced by the built environment. It was 30 days 41% founded in the twenties and privatised in 1997 although all profits go back into the organisation, which aims to influence government policy 10 hours 19% * BRE also has two deferred final and regulation on energy efficiency, sustainability, and fire safety. Based salary pension schemes in Hertfordshire, it has facilities in Scotland, Wales and Cornwall and Staff rating offices in Canada, China, India and Brazil. 5

What they say: 4

“Our 72-acre green and wooded site enables staff to 3 get away from the office and enjoy the fresh air during 2 breaks. The site also houses a sports field, a gym, a music room and a staff restaurant” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 12% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Betteridge-BRE_CMddv2AK.indd 19 17/10/2013 10:32 20 / good employer guide 2013

Buro Four Key company factS A LL STAFF Project manager 79 GPP (C) Buro Four was established in 1985 and has its head office in London, some staff with regional offices in Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds and 30 days 25% a growing presence in Abu Dhabi. Project management is the core business of the firm but it also offers services that include design project 58 hours 6% management, programme management and legal support. It recently won work as part of the design team for the £92m National Automotive Staff rating

Innovation Campus for the University of Warwick. 5

4

What they say: 3 “The pay and benefits package offered to staff is 2 benchmarked against the industry annually, and always comes above average” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 11% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

CBG Consultants Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 63 GPP (C) CBG is an independent M&E consultant with a specialist in-house sustainability service. The firm offers design and specification, project 28 days 12% management, cost control and CDM co-ordination services. CBG

provides BREEAM consultancy as well as reports on CO2 emissions 53 hours 22% and compliance with Part L. The company, which works mainly in the Midlands, Oxford and the South-east, is independent and wholly owned Staff rating by its directors. 5

What they say: 4

“We have recently restructured and have promoted 3

eight new principal engineers from within their teams. 2 We are keen to reward loyalty and patience with career 1 progression” 0 Staff turnover 2012 25% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Churchill Hui Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 21 DCSP Churchill Hui is an architect specialising in the affordable and social housing sector that was founded in 1973. It provides services for housing 25 days 19% associations, local authorities and contractors. One of its recent projects was a £9.2m centre for homeless people in Brent, north London. 40 hours 0%

Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “We provide paid yearly placements for both 2 architectural and surveying year out students, many of whom return as permanent staff” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 10% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

BuroFour-Churchill 2013_CMddv2AK.indd 20 21/10/2013 11:45 good employer guide 2013 / 21

Churchill Retirement Living Key company factS ALL STAFF Developer 229 PP (C) Since 2000, Churchill Retirement Living has focused exclusively on developing purpose-built retirement schemes. It now has UK retirement 36 days 60% some staff apartments across the south of England and the Midlands, with its head office in Ringwood, Hampshire and regional offices in Surrey, 27 hours NA Hertfordshire and the West Midlands. This year it came 37th in the Sunday Times Best 100 Small Companies to Work For list. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“Even during a tough economic climate, as a company 3

we have behaved responsibly and sensitively to our 2 staff, as shown through our announcements and 1 regular communications with employees” 0 Staff turnover 2012 15% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Clancy Consulting Key company factS ALL STAFF DCSP / GPP (C) / Consultant 136 MP (C) Clancy Consulting provides a multidisciplinary engineering design, building surveying and advisory service. It specialises in the civil, 32 days 9% some staff structural, building services and geoenvironmental fields. In 2012, it renewed its Investor in People status. The company has nine offices 18 hours 8% in the UK (Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, Prestwick and Reading) and three overseas in Staff rating India, Oman and Kuwait. 5

4

What they say: 3

“Many of our directors have worked their way up 2 through the company, and we endeavour to promote 1 from within wherever possible” 0 Staff turnover 2012 6% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Collins Construction Key company factS ALL STAFF Contractor 61 DCSP Collins was founded in 1956. Its core business is refurbishment and fit-out services and it is increasingly taking on design responsibilities. 25 days 0% The contractor works on projects from £50,000 to £7m in the commercial office, healthcare, education and leisure sectors. It operates 4.5 days 21 hours mainly in London and the South-east. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “In the last 12 months we have had two internal staff 2 promotions to director level, thus opening the path to junior staff developing towards a more senior role” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 9% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

BuroFour-Churchill 2013_CMddv2AK.indd 21 21/10/2013 11:45 Progress your career in Real Estate & Construction

The College of Estate Management (CEM) is the leading provider of supported online learning for real estate and construction professionals. We offer a range of Diplomas and Degrees at Undergraduate and Postgraduate level which are accredited or recognised by leading professional bodies such as RICS and CIOB. Our supported online learning gives you the fl exibility to fi t study around your life. Using our Virtual Learning Environment you’ll have everything you need (at your fi ngertips) to gain a respected qualifi cation.

“ The modules and topics covered issues I was encountering every day at work and often allowed me to be more knowledgeable about issues than some Find out more of my colleagues. Following the completion of the www.cem.ac.uk course I was offered a promotion and having CEM on email [email protected] my CV has opened numerous doors of opportunity or call 0800 019 9697 for me. I would highly recommend the course for any surveyors looking for a very well recognised and rewarding qualifi cation.” Most of our courses are accredited by: Nick Wood, MSc Real Estate Development Surveyor (MRICS), John Laing

CEN-GEG2013.indd 1 16/10/2013 14:30 good employer guide 2013 / 23

Couch Perry Wilkes Key company factS some STAFF Engineer 193 DCSP Couch Perry Wilkes, founded in 1978, is one of the UK’s largest dedicated environmental building services consultancies, with yearly 30 days 7% project values exceeding £900m. The company has 12 directors and offices in Birmingham, Nottingham, Leeds, Cambridge, Bristol, 39 hours 8% Leicester and London. It is recognised by Investors in People, has an apprenticeship scheme and is currently recruiting. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “We have nurtured over the past five years about 2 30 trainees who are currently undertaking or have completed their HNC / degree in building services” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 2% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

CS2 Chartered Surveyors Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 50 PP (NC) CS2 is a commercial building and cost consultancy practice that has offices in Birmingham, Bristol, London, Manchester, Milton Keynes 25 days 7% and Northampton. It offers all core building surveying, project management, cost and services consultancy functions. CS2 specialises 10 hours 4% in dilapidations, technical due diligence and cost consultancy. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“Despite the tough economic climate CS2 has 2 maintained fee income, and by doing so has been able 1 to retain staff and ensure benefits are upheld” 0 Staff turnover 2012 16% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Curtins Consulting Key company factS ALL STAFF Engineer 196 GPP (C) Curtins Consulting is an independently-owned structural and civil engineering consultancy with a history going back 50 years. 30 days 4% some staff The business now has 11 UK offices with its head office in Liverpool. It classifies its specialisms as structures, transport 25 hours 8% planning, civils, environmental, infrastructure, sustainability and expert advisory services. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “We encourage staff to participate in company-led and 2 individual initiatives, sponsoring two of our staff to take part in community building projects in Africa in 2012 and 2013” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 10% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

CouchPerry-Curtins_CMddv2AK.indd 23 17/10/2013 10:37 024_GEG251013.qxp 18/10/13 08:18 Page 1

Passion for... People

Tel: 01707 339800 Email: [email protected] www.echelonconsultancy.co.uk good employer guide 2013 / 25

DBK Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 100 MP (C) DBK is an independent project management and cost consultancy. Its services include building surveying, health and safety / CDM, utility 30 days 17% solutions, sustainability, corporate services and affordable housing consultancy. Its sector experience is in residential, industrial, data, 30 hours 5% office, retail, affordable housing, education, hotels, mixed-use, student housing, and health and medical care. The company’s offices are in Staff rating Birmingham, London and Manchester. 5

4

What they say: 3 “We support professional development, and offer paid 2 professional memberships and support for training, including in-house RICS assessors and study leave” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 6% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Echelon Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 15 CP (C) Echelon was founded in 2005 by the managing director Mathew Baxter and it has grown organically since then. Based in St Albans, 30 days 23% some staff the company provides a range of services including procurement, asset management and project management. Its clients are mainly local 28 hours 7% authorities and housing associations. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“Echelon is an SME, but the infrastructure that has 2 been put in place to enable our people to work remotely 1 is comparative [to that of] much larger companies” 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Key company factS A ll Staff

Elliott Thomas Group DCSP / GPP (C) / Contractor 121 PP (C) Elliott Thomas has five divisions based on areas of expertise in construction, logistics, hoists, masonry and carpentry. It was established 25 days 2% some staff just over 10 years ago and now says that it works on some of the largest and most complex construction projects in the UK. Some examples of 14 hours 21% its work include refurbishing the Bodleian Library in Oxford and the Old Stock Exchange in London. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “This year, we have reintroduced small pay rises and 2 have started a bonus scheme allowing individuals to earn up to 10% of their salary” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 20% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

DBK-Elliott Thomas_CMddv2 AK.indd 25 17/10/2013 15:21 26 / good employer guide 2013

Elliott Wood Partnership Key company factS ALL STAFF Engineer 83 GPP (NC) This structural and civil engineering consultancy has nearly 20 years of experience, working on projects in the residential, commercial, 28 days 19% healthcare, hotels, education, leisure / cultural buildings, regeneration and retail sectors. The company, which has offices in Wimbledon, 145 hours 7% central London and Nottingham, has a “Green Team” to drive green initiatives forward. It has had Investors in People accreditation since Staff rating 1994, and has featured in the Good Employer Guide since 2009. 5

4

What they say: 3 “Elliott Wood invests heavily in the people behind the 2 business; this is mirrored in the staff retention levels and our ability to attract new talent” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 22% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

EPR Architects Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 120 GPP (C) Established in 1947, EPR describes itself as an “architecture, masterplanning and interior design practice”. Its office is in 23 days 16% some staff Millbank, London, and it works on domestic and foreign developments. High-profile projects include 100 Cheapside, a City office development 35 hours 10% that aims for BREEAM “excellent” and LEED Platinum ratings. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “EPR recognises that a sensible life-work balance, 2 relaxed office environment and an enhanced benefits package is paramount for staff morale and wellbeing” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 11% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Fuse Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 17 GPP (C) Fuse was founded just three years ago. Starting with seven staff, it has grown to 17 and has offices in Leeds and Manchester. Its focus 24 days 6% on interior design as well as architectural skills has enabled it to enter the refurbishment sector successfully. It has won a number of design individual basis 0% competitions, including an FE college in Leeds. Abroad it has delivered refurbishment projects in European capital cities for the Hard Rock Staff rating International brand. 5

What they say: 4

“We have a very diverse portfolio of projects for our 3 staff to work on and they are positively encouraged 2 to take the design lead: there is no company style of autocratic in-house design leader!” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Elliott Wood-Fuse_CMddv2AK.indd 26 17/10/2013 14:18 good employer guide 2013 / 27

Gelder Group Key company factS Some STAFF Contractor 187 DCSP / PP (C) / PP (NC) The Gelder Group was formed in 1988 and is divided into eight operational divisions and six associated companies, with offices located 25 days 9% in the Midlands and Yorkshire. The group’s divisions include major contracts, maintenance, new homes, structural solutions and modular 40 hours 2% building. The group is accredited with the Investors in People Gold Award and has been in the Good Employer Guide since 2009. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We are in a fantastic position to train not just our own 3

staff with our training academy, but people from all over 2 the country due to the fact all of our training courses 1 are City & Guilds accredited” 0 Staff turnover 2012 12% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Hardies Key company factS all STAFF Consultant 69 GPP (NC) Hardies, which is celebrating its centenary year, has established a reputation as a leading chartered survey and cost consultant in 40 days 9% some staff Scotland. It says the challenges over the past year have led it to move its focus on public housing and health to education, leisure and commercial 5 hours 0% projects for corporate clients. It has 14 branches throughout Scotland. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4 “Our graduate and student programme ensures that 3

we foster new talent and our programme to support 2 the achievement of professional status is a great 1 investment and leads to high staff retention levels” 0 Staff turnover 2012 15% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Hawkins\Brown Key company factS all STAFF CP (C) / GPP (C) Architect 110 Formed in 1988 by Roger Hawkins and Russell Brown, the practice is based in London and works on a range of projects from universities and 25 days 43% schools to transport, offices and arts schemes. High-profile projects include the Crossrail Tottenham Court Road station western ticket hall 35 hours 34% and the regeneration of Park Hill in Sheffield, which was shortlisted for this year’s Stirling prize. To help with flexible working the practice offers Staff rating

staff iPhone 5s and Macbook Airs. 5

4

What they say: 3

“With an average of over 100 direct applicants to every 2 position we open, we feel that this is proof that we have 1 something special to offer” 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Elliott Wood-Fuse_CMddv2AK.indd 27 17/10/2013 14:18 28 / good employer guide 2013

Henderson Green Key company factS ALL STAFF Engineer 28 GPP (C) Henderson Green specialises in mechanical and electrical engineering and offers a wide range of services, including a range of sustainability 25 days 8% some staff expertise such as BREEAM assessments and Part L compliance modelling. It was selected for the Good Employer Guide in 2008, 2009 109 hours 0% and 2010, and is currently recruiting for its office in Southampton (it also has an office in Jersey). Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“Our training academy brings in two junior building services 3 engineers every two years, and various training activities 2 are available to everyone regardless of role; the finances allocated to training have been maintained year-on-year” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 0% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Hill International Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 146 GPP (C) Hill International provides project management and construction claims services and describes itself as one of the largest claims 38 days 15% some staff consultants in the world. Its clients include contractors, owners, solicitors, financiers and insurance companies. It has 100 offices 25 hours 9% worldwide and operates out of offices in six UK locations (this entry is for its UK operations). Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“Employees are actively encouraged to become 3

members of professional bodies. Those who wish 2 to gain chartered status or higher qualifications are 1 supported by Hill through” 0 Staff turnover 2012 4% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Hilson Moran Key company factS ALL STAFF Engineer 185 CP (C) In January 2012 Hilson Moran’s directors completed a management buyout, returning the company, which was founded 35 years ago, to 27 days 6% independence. Earlier this year the company was appointed mechanical engineer and energy consultant on the £1bn Royal Albert Docks project 45 hours 19% in east London. It has a graduate training scheme and currently six young engineers are working towards chartered status. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We are ever mindful of the economic challenges 3 that face our industry, however this year we have 2 also provided a company-wide pay rise along with an increased holiday allowance for all employees” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 20% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Henderson Green-Hilson Moran_CM_ddv2AK.indd 28 17/10/2013 10:35 good employer guide 2013 / 29

HLM Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 132 GPP (C/NC) HLM incorporates four business elements, which are represented across all its offices: architects; landscape and urban design; interiors; and 30 days 25% environment. The practice works in Europe, the Middle East, Australia and South Africa. In the UK, where it has six offices, it has targeted 30 hours 7% public sector work including education, health and prisons. This year it took over two collapsed architects: Sidell Gibson and Llewelyn Davies. Staff rating

5 What they say: 4 “We’ve always believed work should be about enjoyment and fulfilment. Our staff can get involved in seeing their 3 designs through to completion and in presenting to the 2

end user and client, and we recognise extra hours put in 1 with time off” 0 Staff turnover 2012 10% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Jackson Coles Key company factS A LL STAFF Consultant 52 GPP (C) Jackson Coles, founded over 30 years ago, offers cost consultancy and project management but also services in building surveying, contract 30 days 14% some staff administration, expert evidence, CDM co-ordination and more. The practice has offices in London and Milton Keynes and operates in 25 hours 6% sectors including arts and leisure, commercial, mixed use, residential and sustainability. It acted as quantity surveyor on Astley Castle, this Staff rating year’s Stirling prize winner. 5

4

What they say: 3 “In difficult times we have tried to retain benefits that 2 we know staff value. We are successfully recruiting and find that our overall offer remains attractive” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 4% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

JLES Group Key company factS ALL STAFF Project manager 19 DCSP JLES Group was founded in 2004 and has grown organically from working in the North-west to nationwide. It consists of three 24 days 7% some staff independent disciplines: technical consultancy and professional services; project management and site supervision; and construction 60 hours 0% delivery. JLES specialises in road, sewer and open space projects and operates in both private and public sectors. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“JLES currently employs three engineering/construction 3 apprentices and we are in the process of recruiting 2 more apprentices to provide us with trained project engineers to meet the future demands of our business” 1

0 Staff turnover 2012 21% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Henderson Green-Hilson Moran_CM_ddv2AK.indd 29 17/10/2013 10:35 FOR US IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT OUR PEOPLE

We are proud to once again be a Building Good Employer and to have increased our greatest asset, our people, by 21% in 2013.

Thank you to all that have made both of these impressive achievements possible.

For all opportunities please visit our website, LinkedIn or follow us on Twitter. www.jrp.co.uk

ROWAN_GEG 2013.indd 1 16/10/2013 15:39 good employer guide 2013 / 31

John Robertson Architects Key company factS some STAFF Architect 60 PP (C) / PP (NC) John Roberston Architects, which was formed in 1993, works from an office in the Bankside area of London and its new office in Lodz, Poland. 30 days 37% It has a wide range of new-build and office refurbishment projects in central London and recently won planning permission for its design of 31 hours 12% the Farringdon Crossrail station development. It also works on projects in the Middle East. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We encourage our staff to continue their professional 3

training and we have provided 10 days paid study leave 2 and a financial contribution to fees for those taking their 1 final professional exams” 0 Staff turnover 2012 31% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Key company factS A LL STAFF

John Rowan and Partners CP (C) / PP (C) / Consultant 102 PP (NC) John Rowan and Partners is an international consultancy firm with two offices in London and one in Christchurch, New Zealand. It works 39 days 14% some staff across public and private sectors and provides a range of services including cost management, project management and building 38 hours 30% surveying. The firm, which had a turnover of £7.2m at year end in October 2012, operates in the residential, hotel and leisure, retail and Staff rating infrastructure sectors. 5

What they say: 4

“We work a flexible 36.5-hour week, finish at 4.30pm 3

on Fridays and have regular Wellbeing Days (activities 2 range from talks and advice from our healthcare 1 provider, massages and runs round the park)” 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Keegans Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 53 DCSP Keegans was formed in 1984 as a quantity surveying practice and has developed into a multidisciplinary consultancy specialising in 33 days 14% some staff project management, cost consultancy, building surveying and CDM co-ordination. It operates out of offices in London, Fareham in 45 hours 16% Hampshire and Glasgow. Keegans has been in the Good Employer Guide since 2009. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “We have provision for all staff (both technical and 2 administrative) to share in a company-wide bonus scheme linked to company-wide performance and profitability” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 9% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

JohnRobertson-Keegans_CMddv2AK.indd 31 17/10/2013 14:17 LSI_GEG 2013.indd 1 16/10/2013 15:02 good employer guide 2013 / 33

Levitt Bernstein Associates Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 79 GPP (C) An architecture practice with studios in London and Manchester, Levitt some staff Bernstein designs buildings with a value of between £0.5m and £100m. 28 days* 41% It specialises in regeneration, housing and cultural buildings, as well as designing for the education, health, commercial, mixed-use and 18 hours 8% * Maximum holiday for senior staff landscape design sectors. The practice has designed Aylesbury South-West Corner, a £55m, 261-unit scheme for housing association Staff rating London & Quadrant as part of the redevelopment of the Aylesbury 5 Estate. 4

What they say: 3 “We work in a collaborative and non-hierarchical way. 2 Our senior managers are hands-on with projects so come into contact all of the time with all levels of staff” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 22% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

LSI Architects Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 47 GPP (C) Based in London and Norwich, LSI Architects is an architectural practice with around 50 staff. It undertakes commissions in the UK 30 days 18% and overseas, working for clients including national and local government agencies, NHS trusts and international companies. 66 hours 0% some staff It recently won planning permission for offices housing Suffolk county council and Waveney district council in Lowestoft, which is designed Staff rating to be energy efficient. 5

4

What they say: 3

“Since achieving good placings in the guide over the last 2 few years we have maintained all staff benefits, without 1 reducing pay, except at partner level” 0 Staff turnover 2012 5% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Mace Key company factS ALL STAFF Contractor/Consultant 2,487 GPP (C) Mace is an international consultancy and construction company with expertise in programme and project management, cost consultancy, 27 days 14% construction delivery, and facilities management. It had a £1.1bn turnover in 2012, an increase of 18% on the previous year, and pre-tax 33 hours 12% profit was £28m, up 22% on the same period. The company’s chief executive Mark Reynolds aims to increase turnover to £2bn by 2020 and Staff rating to see its worldwide staff numbers increase to over 4,000. 5

4

What they say: 3 “We place great value on the skills and experience that 2 our employees bring to Mace and our remuneration and benefits package demonstrates that” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 6% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Levitt_ddcmv2AK.indd 33 17/10/2013 15:15 34 / good employer guide 2013

Make Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 131 GPP (NC) Founded by Ken Shuttleworth in 2004, Make is a practice with offices in London, Beijing and Hong Kong. The firm undertakes a broad range 29 days 29% of international projects, from urban masterplanning to work in the housing, education, public, residential and commercial sectors. This 45 hours 17% year the company reported a 166% jump in pre-tax profit, driven by strong growth in work in India. One of its international projects is Hewa Staff rating ‘’Hope’’ Children’s Hospital, the first children’s hospital in Iraq. 5

4

What they say: 3 “Make’s approach – placing employees’ wellbeing first – 2 has enabled it to bolster business, retain staff and grow profits, both in the UK and overseas” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 4% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions Martin Arnold Associates Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 52 DCSP Established in 1999, Martin Arnold Associates offers chartered surveying and construction consultation services, including 25 days 17% some staff architecture, project management, value engineering, risk management, environmental consultation and health and safety advice. It is based 300 hours 8% in south-east London. It was ranked at 145 in Building’s Top 200 Consultants league table this year. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Our emphasis is on training and professional 2 qualifications to the highest possible standard. We have a strong team ethic and atmosphere in the firm” 1

0 Staff turnover 2012 4% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Max Fordham Key company factS ALL STAFF Engineer 173 GPP (C) Max Fordham is a whole-building engineering business founded in 1966. It has 142 staff, including 112 engineers, in its London, Cambridge 30 days 21% and Edinburgh offices. It works in sectors including M&E engineering, sustainability consultancy, renewable energy technologies and 51 hours unknown low-energy design. Max Fordham worked with Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios on The Hive project in Worcester, which won the Sustainable Staff rating Project of the Year category in this year’s Building Awards. 5

4

What they say: 3 “Everyone benefits from flexible working practices, 2 payment for every hour that is worked, and a suite of generous Max Fordham benefits” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 11% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Make_ddcmv2AK.indd 34 17/10/2013 14:24 good employer guide 2013 / 35

Mount Anvil Key company factS ALL STAFF Developer 131 DCSP Mount Anvil is a specialist residential developer, working on projects ranging in value from £25m to around £200m. Its homes range from 30 days 10% some staff conversion and restoration to contemporary new build. In 2012, it delivered 500 homes, with turnover at £108m, up from £90.5m in 2011, 50 hours 10% and pre-tax profit of £10.1m, up from £2m in the same period. It is based in the City of London. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Attractive bonuses are made based on performance, 2 and monetary awards given for length of service, employee referral scheme, marriages and new babies” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 14% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

MSMR Architects Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 31 GPP (C) MSMR is a UK architectural practice with an emphasis on prime central London residential. The company has also won work internationally, 28 days 52% some staff most notably in Gibraltar, Spain and Russia. Founded in 2000, the practice’s projects include apartment buildings and individual houses, 43 hours 10% as well as affordable housing. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“Our directors make every effort to forge strong 3 relationships with staff, consultants and clients. At 2 Christmas we present every member of staff with a gift such as an iPad or iPhone” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 5% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Multitech Site Services Key company factS ALL STAFF Contractor 84 GPP (NC) Multitech provides a range of site services including temporary electrics, equipment hire, temporary plumbing, installation, testing, certification, 24 days 2% generators and fuel. With a head office in Great Dunmow, Essex, the company also opened its Midlands office in 2011 in Wellingborough, 24 hours 1% Northamptonshire. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“Despite the tough economic climate, Multitech 2 awarded all employees an increase in salary in January 1 2013 ahead of market rates” 0 Staff turnover 2012 8% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Make_ddcmv2AK.indd 35 17/10/2013 14:24 36 / good employer guide 2013

NG Bailey Key company factS ALL STAFF Engineer 2,032 DCSP / MP (C) NG Bailey is the UK’s largest independent engineering, construction and services company, with 2,500 employees across Europe. It works for 32 days 8% some staff private and public sector clients, and has worked on projects including Calder Hall and Sizewell B nuclear power stations and Heathrow’s 24 hours 5% Terminal 5 building. Earlier this year NG Bailey’s Rail division was awarded a contract to provide the permanent M&E services for the Staff rating redevelopment of London Bridge Station. 5

4

What they say: 3

“NG Bailey is committed to developing its existing 2 in-house talent, through its own leadership and talent 1 management development programme” 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Nicholas Hare Architects Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 52 DCSP Nicholas Hare Architects is based in Islington, London, and designs for sectors including schools and universities, commercial, medical, 30 days 41% residential and masterplanning. It emphasises sustainability in its designs, and wrote an Environmental Roadmap of green policy and 35 hours 4% practice in 2012. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Keeping everyone in touch and sharing knowledge 2 and experience is fundamental to how we sustain a supportive and collaborative environment” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 13% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Oktra Key company facts ALL STAFF Contractor 55 Comb (C) / PP (NC) Oktra (formerly Margolis Office Environments) is a specialist in office design, fit out, project management, and furniture supply, based in 23 days 20% some staff the City of London. It has been working in the sector since 1911 and offers a range of services from consultancy and design to full project 96 hours 16% management. The firm was selected for the Good Employer Guide in 2011 and 2012. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “We take a personal approach to staff and pride 2 ourselves on having a family feel in the office. Having a happy team is one of our critical success factors” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 2% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Multitech_ddcmv2AK.indd 36 17/10/2013 16:44 good employer guide 2013 / 37

P+HS Architects Key company facts ALL STAFF DCSP / GPP Architect 60 (C) / PP (C) With offices in Leeds, London and Stokesley, North Yorkshire, P+HS Architects specialises in the healthcare and residential sectors, working 29 days 21% with private and public sector clients. Since 2010 it has been using the BIM software Autocad in its design and delivery process. It achieved 70 hours 5% some staff the first BREEAM “outstanding” for UK healthcare with its work at Houghton Primary Care Centre. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “We believe our staff enjoy their working environment 2 because they tell us and we see a great atmosphere of collaboration” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 3% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Pellings Key company factS All Staff Consultant 73 Comb (C) Established in 1977, Pellings is an integrated architectural, property and construction consultancy, with offices in Bromley, Kent and 33 days 8% some staff Barnet, Hertfordshire. Sectors the company works in include housing, education, commercial, health, government and conservation. It is 11 hours 19% currently recruiting. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We believe we have a happier, healthier, and more 3

motivated workforce than we ever have, and share 2 the responsibility of delivering a high-quality service to 1 our clients” 0 Staff turnover 2012 8% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Peter Brett Associates Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 370 GPP (C) Peter Brett Associates is a development and infrastructure consultancy. Formed from a merger of Peter Brett Associates, Roger Tym & Partners 30 days 25% and Baker Associates in 2011, a fourth company – Hannah, Reed and some staff Associates – was acquired in July 2013. The company works across the 50 hours 8% UK and central Europe. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “The opportunities provided for personal development 2 are extensive, with a culture of training and development throughout the organisation” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 14% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Multitech_ddcmv2AK.indd 37 17/10/2013 16:44 We are commited to creativity, innovation and excellence in everything we do. We are Pick Everard.

Leicester | Bury St. Edmunds | Cardiff | Chelmsford | Derby | Glasgow | Inverness | London | Manchester | Nottingham | Taunton

We are an equal opportunities employer

038_GEG251013.indd 1 17/10/2013 16:02 good employer guide 2013 / 39

Pick Everard Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 375 DCSP Pick Everard is an independent and multidisciplinary architectural and engineering partnership. With a head office in Leicester, it has nine 26 days 15% some staff further regional offices throughout the UK. While working in a broad range of sectors, it has enjoyed particular success with infrastructure 48 hours 14% and prison projects. In 2012 its operating profit was £113m. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We have focused on giving praise and recognition. 3 We have increased the number and variety of team 2 briefings, project workshops and team building events to keep morale high” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 16% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Pollard Thomas Key company factS ALL STAFF Edwards architects 111 DCSP Architect 23 days 33% some staff Pollard Thomas Edwards architects specialises in the creation and revitalisation of neighbourhoods through architecture, masterplanning 56 hours 21% and urban design, property development and community engagement. It is based in Islington, north London and works across the city. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“Last October we took the whole office to Madrid, 2 partly as a study tour, and partly as a well earned 1 weekend away!” 0 Staff turnover 2012 15% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Project & Building Key company factS some STAFF Consultancy 15 Comb (C) Consultant 30 days 0% The company provides professional project management and building consultancy services to owners, occupiers and developers of commercial 220 hours 13% property, and has over 20 years’ experience in the property sector. It is based in the City of London. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “The working atmosphere is very relaxed, and staff 2 can work together in harmony with no strict formal procedures hampering progress or causing friction” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 13% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

PickEverard_ddcmv2AK.indd 39 17/10/2013 14:34 040_GEG251013.qxp 18/10/13 09:35 Page 1 good employer guide 2013 / 41

Protec International Key company factS ALL STAFF Manufacturer/Supplier 17 GPP (C) Protec International Ltd supplies temporary protection materials to help prevent costly damages while also meeting the safety requirements that 25 days 63% are needed during construction. 16 hours 0%

Staff rating

5 What they say: “The single best indicator that staff enjoy their working 4

environment should be staff retention. Most of our staff 3 recruited before 2011 have been with the company 2 three or more years. Over half of the staff have been with the company for over six years” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 0% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Purcell Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 150 Comb (C) Purcell is a company of architects, designers and historic building consultants, specialising in conservation and preservation, with 15 30 days 46% some staff offices around the UK and one in Hong Kong. It works in eight sectors: cultural, education, hospitality, places of worship, public, residential, 33 hours 5% transport and workplace. Earlier this year it was awarded the role of conservation and architectural adviser on the first stage of phase two of Staff rating the Battersea Power Station redevelopment. 5

4

What they say: 3

“We ensure that we have a learning and development 2 budget so staff improve and progress and each staff 1 member has a personal development plan” 0 Staff turnover 2012 19% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Quattro Design Key company factS ALL STAFF Architects 24 GPP (C) Architect 29 days 45% Quattro is an architectural practice based in Gloucester and working in the Midlands and across the south of England and Wales. It works 55 hours 0% on housing, community, health and education projects, and its major clients are housing associations, local authorities, health authorities and Staff rating community groups. 5

4

What they say: 3 “Quattro Culture promotes the social aspects of work, 2 where an acceptance of and caring for those around you makes work a pleasant place to be” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Protec_ddcmv2AK.indd 41 17/10/2013 14:37 WE BUILD CAREERS LIKE WE BUILD HOMES...

With long term sustainability at the heart of everything we do

BUILD A BETTER CAREER WITH THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS

For more information about a career at Redrow visit: www.redrowplc.co.uk/careers-and-recruitment

REDROW_GEG 2013.indd 1 16/10/2013 15:43 good employer guide 2013 / 43

Redrow Key company factS ALL STAFF Housebuilder 1,086 GPP (C) Redrow is a residential and mixed-use property developer, known primarily as a housebuilder. It builds across the country and in recent 30 days 28% years has been developing its London presence. It has offices in Wales, Staffordshire, Lancashire, West Yorkshire, Essex, Northampton, Bristol, 16 hours 2% Hampshire and London. The firm increased housing completions in 2012 by 15% to 2,827 and its pre-tax profit for the year to June 2013 rose Staff rating by 63% to £70m. 5

4

What they say: 3

“We offer employee recognition schemes at all levels 2 including Apprentice of the Year. These are awarded at 1 both divisional and then group level” 0 Staff turnover 2012 11% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Rex Procter & Partners Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 92 DCSP One of the largest construction consultants and quantity surveying practices in the north of England, Rex Procter & Partners operates on a 27 days 8% national basis. Its services to clients include quantity surveying and cost management, project management, employer’s agent, building services 20 hours 1% and contract services. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Our USP is that all projects have senior level 2 involvement. Directors are hand-on professionals leading by example to staff” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 0% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Robert Woodhead Key company factS A LL STAFF Comb (C) / DCSP / GPP Contractor 72 (C) / PP (C) / PP (NC) Robert Woodhead is a construction firm operating across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire and based in Nottinghamshire. 37 days 10% It has a turnover of over £18m and works in areas including new build, design and build, conservation, sustainable buildings and repairs 19 hours 0% and maintenance. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “People want to work here to be part of the family. 2 More than 60% of our employees have been with the company for over eight years” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 9% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Redrow_ddcmv2AK.indd 43 17/10/2013 14:38 044_GEG251013.qxp 18/10/13 08:17 Page 1

FastFast tracktrack your your careercareer withwith a a recognised recognised CIArbCIArb qualificationqualification inin ConstructionConstruction AdjudicationAdjudication

The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) is the world’s leading professional membership body for alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Our prestigious ‘Accelerated Routes’ courses can provide legally qualified professionals with a fast-track route to CIArb Membership or Fellowship, offering an internationally-recognised qualification to support you in your ADR career. The professional home of Contact us today to fi nd out more or book your place ›› Dispute Resolution Worldwide

Adjudication / Arbitration / Mediation / International Arbitration

Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, 12 Bloomsbury Square, London, WC1A 2LP, UK Do you have a dispute? T: +44 (0)20 7421 7439 E: [email protected] W: www.ci arb.org/diary Contact Waj Khan @ciarb www.facebook.com/TheCIArb LinkedIn at CIArb DAS.

Celebrating 60 Years of Architecture, 1953-2013

Ryder Architecture Newcastle Glasgow Liverpool London www.ryderarchitecture.com good employer guide 2013 / 45

Robin Partington Key company factS ALL STAFF Architects 45 DCSP / GPP (C) Architect 29 days 5% some staff Robin Partington Architects is a practice based in the West End of London. It offers services including masterplanning, retail, residential, 30 hours 0% offices, interior design and product design. One of its high-profile masterplans is One Merchant Square in London’s Paddington Basin. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We invest heavily in having the best possible kit to 3 remove technical frustrations and recently introduced 2 a cafe (with beer fridge!) and a fancy coffee machine, which sees the space acting as the heart of our office” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 9% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Ryder Architecture Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 118 PP (C) With offices in London, Liverpool, Glasgow and Newcastle, Ryder Architecture was an early adopter of Building Information Modelling 26 days 28% (BIM) and co-launched the BIM Academy with Northumbria University. The main sectors it works in are education, healthcare, industrial, 80+ hours 4% infrastructure, leisure, offices, public buildings, residential and science. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“Leadership and development of our talent centres 2 around our core values – respect, integrity and 1 excellence” 0 Staff turnover 2012 8% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Schofield Lothian Key company factS ALL STAFF Consultant 57 GPP (C) Schofield Lothian is a specialised consultancy practice with expertise in commercial management, project management and business 30 days 20% some staff improvement. It works with a range of clients who commission or contract within the construction and engineering marketplace. 12 hours 9%

Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “The owner and MD’s number one focus is the people. 2 Despite the downturn in the economic climate we are growing and have continued to hire staff” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 26% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Robin_ddcmv2AK.indd 45 17/10/2013 15:18 046_GEG251013.indd 1 17/10/2013 15:55 good employer guide 2013 / 47

Schueco UK Key company factS ALL STAFF Manufacturer/Supplier 128 GPP (C) Schueco UK specialises in energy-efficient solar, window and facade technology. With its headquarters in Bielefeld, Germany, Schueco 25 days 10% some staff has 5,000 employees, of which about 2,000 are engineers, and is active in more than 70 countries. In 2012 it turned over €1.8bn. 40 hours 5%

Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Our most valuable asset is our staff and therefore 2 emphasis and continued commitment is given to engagement, communication and empowerment” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 21% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Scott Brownrigg Key company factS ALL STAFF Architect 129 GPP (C) Scott Brownrigg is an award-winning international architectural practice offering services in architecture, masterplanning and urban 25 days 31% some staff design, planning and interior design. It has offices in London, Guildford, Cardiff and Edinburgh as well as Croatia and Singapore. Earlier this 45 hours 12% year it won planning permission for a new office building for oil and gas company BP in Surrey. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“In 2012/2013, we increased UK staff numbers by 2 12%. Our dynamic working environment has a culture 1 that promotes openness, trust, respect and enjoyment” 0 Staff turnover 2012 12% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

SCS Group Key company factS ALL STAFF Contractor 23 GPP (C) Established in 1992, SCS Group – previously known as Smoke Control Services – designs and installs smoke control, passive ventilation and 25 days 15% building management systems. The company works nationwide and recent high-profile projects include supplying smoke control systems to 60 hours 0% the Westfield shopping centre in Shepherd’s Bush. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Flexibility is particularly valued by employees, who can 2 manage their own schedules and work from home – or Starbucks – without having to consult a manager” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 13% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Schueco_ddcmv2AK.indd 47 17/10/2013 14:41 ThomasSinden 2013_Building Page Template 17/10/2013 13:19 Page 1 £ 1 m £ 2 . m

C o r a m , f o r £ 1 . 6 m £ 1 . 5 m £ 8 0 k r e m o d l i n g , & b u i l d n g C h e l s a , e x p a n s i o , i n d e v l o p m n t , c a m p u s e x t n s i o S i t e , r e t a i l h o u s e & S c h o l , c o m u n i t y r a v e l s T p r i v a t e n e w t o P r i m a y r e s i d n t a l L a n e B u i l d H e a r t & S t r e , R e f u r b i s h m n t C o b D e s i g n C o l d h a r b u S a c r e d • • • • •

137 - 145 Church Road, Harold Wood, Essex, RM3 0SH education t: 01708 335 350 housing e: [email protected] commercial w: www.thomas-sinden.co.uk leisure health rail

048_GEG251013.indd 1 17/10/2013 15:01 good employer guide 2013 / 49

square metre Key company factS A LL STAFF Contractor 25 PP (NC) square metre is a City of London-based refurbishment and fit-out main contractor working within listed, residential and commercial 25 days 21% some staff properties. Its core business focus is delivering Cat A&B commercial projects. Recent project wins include the conversion to residential of 8 hours 12% Heron Place, W1. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Staff are actively encouraged to take up training in 2 fields they believe will help them either in their current position or to grow in the future” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 21% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Stanton Williams Key company factS A LL STAFF Architect 77 GPP (C) Founded in 1985, Stanton Williams is an architectural practice offering architectural, urban design, masterplanning, exhibition and 25 days 27% some staff interior design services. It has worked on culture, education, research, commerce, sports and leisure, residential, public realm and retail 20 hours 12% projects for both public and private sector clients. One of its latest high-profile projects is King’s Cross Square, which opened last month. Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3

“The fact that our staff feel valued is shown by the fact 2 that, on average, employees stay at Stanton Williams 1 for over seven years” 0 Staff turnover 2012 15% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Stiles Harold Williams Key company factS some STAFF Consultant 138 GPP (C) / PP (C) Stiles Harold Willams has nine offices in London and the South-east, and is the largest surveying practice in the South-east specialising in 27 days 31% commercial property. Its specialisms include healthcare, roadside, charities, LPA receivership, airports, leisure and leasehold reform work. 20 hours 4%

Staff rating

5

4

What they say: 3 “Staff wellbeing is fundamental to Stiles Harold 2 Williams; low staff turnover and low absence levels indicate high staff satisfaction” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 7% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

squaremetre_ddvcmv2AK.indd 49 17/10/2013 16:28 50 / good employer guide 2013

Temple Group Key company faCTS ALL STAFF Consultant 58 DCSP Temple Group is an independent environmental and planning consultancy providing integrated multidisciplinary services in the 27 days 34% environmental and planning industry. It has offices in London and West Sussex. Recent key projects include High Speed 2, Thameslink and 16 hours 12% the Shard. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“Over the last two years, the company has grown in 3 income and employee numbers. Annual bonuses and 2 salary increases have been paid to employees. There have been no redundancies” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 8% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Troup Bywaters + Anders Key company faCTS ALL STAFF Engineer 161 DCSP Troup Bywaters + Anders is a firm of consulting building services engineers and designers who work with institutional and commercial 27 days 7% clients across a wide range of sectors and disciplines. It has offices in London, Manchester, Reading, Leeds, Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh. 15 hours 8%

Staff rating

What they say: 5 “TB+A has a strong ethos of home-grown talent, 4

enhanced by recruiting apprentices to introduce them 3 to the industry and nurture them at an early age. 2 The majority of our partners and associates have been promoted internally” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 17% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Key company faCTS ALL STAFF Thomas Sinden DCSP / Comb Contractor 104 (NC) / PP (NC) / GPP (C) Thomas Sinden is a contractor for both public and private sector schemes throughout London and the South-east. It works with private 28 days 8% some staff sector clients, but the majority of its work is with local authorities, often through framework agreements, within areas such as education and 24 hours 6% housing regeneration. Staff rating

5

What they say: 4

“We have recently opened our own training suite and 3 can offer the full range of H&S training in-house to our 2 staff to ensure they are fully equipped to perform their jobs to their best abilities with confidence” 1 0 Staff turnover 2012 8% Leadership CSR Ability to Atmosphere Smarter Career Market contribute working progression conditions

Temple_ddvcmv2AK.indd 50 17/10/2013 16:00 “I am very proud to work for TB+A. They have a well-known reputation for their excellent service to clients and this is a fantastic opportunity to develop my career. It is ok to ask questions and be yourself. Be confident and enthusiastic. They are investing in you and want you to go all the way in the business.”

Oliver Newman + Pierce Ronan, TB+A Apprentices

Working together Sharing the Challenge

www.TBandA.com

Belfast + Cardiff + Edinburgh + Leeds + London + Manchester + Reading

TroupBywaters_GEG251013.indd 1 17/10/2013 15:51 Meet Oktra! Inspiring of ce environments that promote productivity

Our clients rely on us to craft bespoke and sustainable workspaces – exemplar models of productivity and space ef ciency, ergonomic practicality and visual delight. Our proudest moments are seeing their  rst reaction when the doors open to their new of ces.

If you are considering moving of ce and would like to order ‘The Essential Of ce Refurbishment Handbook’ call +44 (0) 20 7553 9500 or download a copy from our website; www.oktra.co.uk

www.oktra.co.uk

052_GEG251013.inddBuilding Good Employer.indd 1 1 17/10/201317/10/2013 13:17:19 13:46