What it means to be a good employer: building a workplace where people thrive

We believe that great design starts with great people.

Our purpose is to design spaces that improve lives, but that ambition begins much closer to home. It starts with creating a workplace where our people feel supported, valued and empowered to do their best work.

That is why we are incredibly proud to be shortlisted for the Building Awards Good Employer category. This recognition reflects the culture we have built together and the ongoing commitment of everyone at HLM to creating an environment where people can thrive. 

Being a good employer is not simply about offering benefits or introducing initiatives. It is about creating a culture where people feel they belong, where opportunities are accessible, where wellbeing is prioritised and where everyone has the confidence to grow. 

As a 100% Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), we are collectively invested in creating that culture. Every colleague has a stake in our success and a voice in shaping our future. Our employee-owned model reinforces something we have always believed: when people feel trusted, respected and included, they are able to do their best work. 

A great workplace is one where people can see their future. 

We are committed to supporting career development at every stage, helping colleagues build confidence, develop new skills and progress in the direction that is right for them. 

Through the HLM Academy, we continue to invest in learning and development across our multi-disciplinary practice. Our enhanced MentoringPLUS programme supports leadership development for all, creating opportunities for colleagues to learn from each other, share experiences and build meaningful connections. 

This year, we have expanded our Academy offering with three new programmes: Your Essentials, People Leadership Essentials and Project Leadership Essentials. These programmes provide practical tools, knowledge and support for colleagues at different stages of their careers, while online assessments help identify areas where further development may be beneficial. 

We believe progression should be based on potential, not background or circumstance. That is why we actively promote internal mobility and progression, while also working to widen access into the profession. 

Through our commitment to Business in the Community’s Opening Doors campaign and our work supporting Care Leavers, we are helping create opportunities for new voices to enter architecture, particularly those from underrepresented groups. 

People do their best work when they feel supported in every aspect of their lives. 

Our SMARTBlend approach empowers colleagues to work flexibly, with a balanced 50/50 approach between studio and home working. This supports different lifestyles, caring responsibilities and personal wellbeing, while maintaining the collaboration and connection that makes our studios such inspiring places to work. 

We have also continued to evolve our Connect Days, ensuring they are more than opportunities to bring teams together. They are moments to strengthen relationships, collaborate and contribute to local communities through quarterly social value activities. 

Our comprehensive Lifestyle Package supports physical, mental, financial and social wellbeing, providing access to Health Cash Plans, remote GP services, face-to-face counselling, cycle-to-work schemes and homeworking support. 

We continue to listen and respond to the changing needs of our people. Our updated Staff Handbook includes enhanced support for fertility treatment, pregnancy, menopause and bereavement, including compassionate paid leave and flexible working arrangements. 

These commitments go beyond compliance. They demonstrate care, understanding and respect for people at every stage of their lives. 

Mental health remains a priority across HLM. With trained Mental Health First Aiders increasing across our studios, alongside leaders trained in workplace health and wellbeing coaching, we are continuing to create an environment where conversations around mental health are open, supportive and stigma-free. 

Building an inclusive culture where everyone belongs 

A good employer recognises that every person brings something different. Our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Group developed the I-BELONG Framework, built around three guiding principles. Be Thoughtful. Be Curious. Be You. 

These principles represent the culture we want to nurture: one where colleagues understand different perspectives, challenge assumptions and feel confident bringing their authentic selves to work. 

Through the HLM Academy, we continue embedding these principles into our learning and development programmes, helping build confidence, knowledge and behaviours that support inclusion. We celebrate diversity throughout the year through cultural events, awareness campaigns and conversations that recognise the experiences and contributions of our people. Our studios are designed with inclusion in mind too, incorporating adaptable spaces that support different needs.  

A culture built on trust and accountability 

Creating a workplace free from bias and discrimination requires ongoing commitment. Policies alone do not create culture. Culture is created through everyday actions, conversations and choices. 

Our EOT structure strengthens shared responsibility, accountability and fairness. We take an individual approach to supporting colleagues, whether through workplace adjustments, flexible working arrangements or tailored support. 

Our Voice Hub provides a safe and open platform where colleagues can share ideas, raise concerns and influence change. Combined with annual EDI training and new bespoke sessions for managers, we continue to create opportunities for learning and improvement. 

A positive workplace culture does not just benefit our people; it strengthens our business. 

Since becoming an EOT, we have seen increased engagement, stronger collaboration and improved retention. Our profit-sharing model ensures everyone benefits from the success we create together, reinforcing a shared sense of ownership and purpose. 

Over the last year, we have welcomed 69 new colleagues, increased our headcount by 13.5%, celebrated four promotions and seen six colleagues shortlisted for professional awards. Our culture helps us attract talented people, encourage innovation and deliver better outcomes for our clients and communities. 

That commitment has also been recognised externally. We are proud to have been ranked #8 in the Top 100 Best Companies to Work For 2025 and #1 in the Architect category, reflecting the experiences and feedback of our people. 

Being shortlisted for the Building Awards Good Employer category is a proud moment for everyone at HLM. It recognises the collective effort of our people and the culture we continue to build together. 

However, being a good employer is not a destination. It is a continuous commitment that requires listening, learning and evolving. 

From supporting young people entering the profession to helping colleagues plan for retirement, every stage of the employee journey matters. 

We are proud of our progress, but equally focused on what comes next. By continuing to invest in our people, strengthen our culture and create opportunities for everyone to thrive, we are building not only a better workplace, but a stronger, more resilient practice for the future. 

Because ultimately, the best places are created by people who feel valued, supported and inspired to make a difference.