HLM Architects has been named a finalist in the ‘Employer of the Year’ category at the renowned AJ100 Awards 2021. The Award, which recognises the best practice for employees, is judged on topics such as staff satisfaction, workplace culture, benefits and staff turnover.
The practice was named last year’s winner and praised for initiatives such as the HLM Academy, a personal and professional development framework to help all team members reach their full potential, and their workplace environment, where employees feel motivated and valued.
During the pandemic, HLM Architects has stayed connected with its employees and enhanced its wellbeing programme, also boosting the number of mental health first aiders in the practice on hand to support employees.
Over the last year, the practice continued to introduce new initiatives to provide a flexible, supportive working environment and is currently piloting its SMARTBlend scheme which embraces new ways of working. The practice transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust, where 100% of the shareholding has been placed into a Trust, putting HLM’s future firmly in the hands of employees.
The practice also expanded its senior management team following years of strong growth, with the appointment of Marcus Earnshaw and Simon Chenery to the Board of Directors, and welcoming four new Associates including Anne Daw, Karl Brown, Stuart Beaumont and Luke Riggall.
Karen Mosley, Managing Director, said: “It is a great honour to once again be in the running for Employer of the Year. The events of the last year presented an opportunity for us to learn and grow as a practice. We’ve used the time to further understand the needs of all of our employees, which are unique and evolving, and put in place the right support and tools for everyone to develop and be their best”.
The winners will be announced at the AJ100 festival taking place virtually from 20th to 22nd September 2021.
