Chess is the only telecoms company to make it into the newspaper’s tenth annual listing of UK firms with fewer than 250 employees. Chess are also celebrating after receiving an outstanding 2 star accreditation awarded by the workplace engagement specialists, Best Companies. This is the third year Chess has been accredited with a star status, however this year’s results coupled with the Top 100 listing are its best yet.
All companies that took part had to provide evidence of different workplace initiatives including corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, environmental practices, benefits packages, and training and development programmes as part of the award entry. A questionnaire was also sent to over 100 employees asking for their feedback on Chess as a workplace.
In addition to the traditional benefits of health and dental plans, pension schemes and flexible working, Chess wowed judges with more unusual benefits such as monthly massages, breakfast club, flu jabs, and a lifestyle club. However it was ‘being green’ which raised its highest rankings. 90% of employees gave positive feedback resulting in Chess ranking 2nd out of the top 100 for its green issues.
Chief Executive, David Pollock who accepted the award said, “It's a massive achievement to not only be one of the fastest growing companies in the UK but to also be one of the Best Companies to Work for. Chess are the only telecoms company to make the Top 100. It's a credit to everyone who works at Chess Telecom - a day to give ourselves a pat on the back. We truly care about our people, it's reflected in how our people care about our customers and that helps our business succeed.”
“Chess’ greatest asset is its people and we pride ourselves in our unique Chess spirit.” added HR & Compliance Director Anne Binnie. “Throughout our growth journey we nurture our sense of spirit, our vision, our culture and our values to further develop our people and the working environment. This is a fantastic achievement for Chess and I am delighted that we’ve been recognised for our commitment to Chess people”.
This latest award comes hot on the heels of being voted Cheshire’s Employer of the Year 2009 and Chief Executive, David voted IOD Cheshire Director of the Year 2009.