A Dundee tech firm has one of the best workplaces in the United Kingdom according to renowned US publication Newsweek.
The Most Loved Workplaces list pays tribute to “companies that put respect, caring and appreciation” for employees at the centre of their business.
More than 450,000 employees were surveyed at companies ranging in size from 50 workers to more than 5,000.
The extensive piece of research has found that Dundee-based Waracle is the 12th best workplace in the UK.
Newsweek said the Bash Street business has “clearly embraced the hybrid office model with enthusiasm.”
It adds: “Employees, lucky them, can choose how and where they work.
“The executive team remains connected to all via weekly video conferences for Q&As and to discuss the company’s direction.”
One place ahead of Waracle in the list is the Eden Project, which is also planning to come to Dundee.
‘Waracle cares’
Waracle is one of the UK’s largest app developers, with a workforce of around 250. It is based in Dundee but also has offices in London, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Last year revenue exceeded £26 million.
Chief people officer Angela Rieu-Clarke said: “Waracle cares. We ultimately respect that people have lives outside of the workplace and we’re keen to support those lives.
“Our people and culture team work hard to ensure our various initiatives value successes, support difficulties and celebrate good news.”
One of the company’s latest initiatives is a cost of living payment for every part-time worker and those earning under the UK average salary. The payment is between £600 and £900 to help with bills.
Angela adds: “No Waracle employee should struggle through this winter.”
Virgin Atlantic is the UK’s top workplace on the list.
Why is Waracle one of the UK’s best workplaces?
- Systems are in place for collaboration. Employees speak to colleagues in small groups. Time is set aside to meet and speak to other developers from the same skill set across the company.
- The company’s vision is shared at monthly hangouts led by the chief executive.
- There is emphasis on its leadership team being accessible to all employees. People can also leave anonymous feedback.
- Waracle also has a ‘culture committee’ – an employee led initiative in which people talk honestly, share ideas, suggest events and innovate.
- Managers strive to do their best for staff as “career champions”. Every member of staff has the opportunity to upskill autonomously or follow tailored courses for specific roles.
- There is a culture of constant improvement.
- Its people and culture team work to support difficulties and celebrate good news.
