Why being Shortlisted for ‘Best Employer’ at the Architect of the Year Awards Reflects Our People-First Culture

Being shortlisted for “Best Employer” at the Architect of the Year Awards isn’t just a proud moment—it’s a powerful reflection of our culture, values and belief that people are the foundation of everything we do. 

We know that our ability to shape inspiring, socially responsible environments stems directly from the passion, creativity, and commitment of our people. Over 200 individuals across our six regional studios collaborate nationally, bound by a shared purpose and a culture that thrives on diversity of thought, inclusion, and continuous growth. 

Since becoming an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) in 2021, we’ve doubled down on this purpose-driven model. Our six Strategic Objectives—one of which is to be an employer of choice—guide everything from the way we lead to the way we learn, grow, and show up for each other. We’re not perfect, and we don’t pretend to be but our curiosity and willingness to listen, learn and evolve means we’re constantly moving forward together. 

We believe learning should be continuous and empowering, which is why HLM Academy offers over 20,000 digital courses, on- and off-site workshops, and our Mentoring-PLUS programme. But our commitment to growth doesn’t stop with professional development—it’s about enabling purpose, too. 

In 2024, we reimagined our career development model. Role profiles now span five levels—Foundation, Developing, Established, Experienced and Leadership—ensuring there’s always a path forward. Each role maps responsibilities across three core areas: Enriching Culture, Creating Value, and Managing Risk, all aligned to our Values. These aren’t tick-box exercises, they’re tools for individual empowerment and collective clarity. 

To support these journeys, we introduced Individual Development Plans, revamped Annual Reviews, and rolled out informal ‘Brew and Reviews’ for more frequent and meaningful check-ins. The result? 84% of our people recently said their job supports their personal growth. 

Wellbeing and Work-Life Balance That Works

Our SMARTBlend scheme continues to set a benchmark for flexible working. With a base of two days in the studio and flexible remote options, colleagues can work where they feel most productive, stay connected with family abroad, and reduce commute-related costs and carbon footprints. We also provide a full Home Loan Kit for every employee, supporting comfort and productivity at home. 

Wellbeing is embedded throughout our policies. From our Lifestyle & Benefits Package—designed around Physical, Emotional, Financial, and Social needs—to our dedicated Mental Health First Aiders and Thrive self-care app offering 100+ hours of CBT and mindfulness content, support is never far away. Our monthly Wellbeing Board Report keeps wellbeing on the leadership agenda and enables early, proactive support across our studios. 

We’ve recently enhanced all family leave policies, introduced psychological safety training, and invested in neurodiversity awareness strategies; ensuring every individual feels supported, recognised, and valued. 

We’re building a business where every voice matters. Our Employee Voice Hub empowers individuals to share suggestions, track progress, and shape decision-making at all levels. It’s more than a feedback loop, it’s a democratic platform that holds leadership accountable and drives real change. 

Our I-BELONG framework, created by our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Group—is our cultural compass. With its pillars of ‘Be Thoughtful’, ‘Be Kind’, and ‘Be You’, we’re reminded daily of the values we stand for. From inclusivi-tea breaks to lived-experience storytelling, the group drives grassroots awareness and action. 

We actively monitor our progress through annual Diversity and Socio-Economic Insight surveys and use tools like Teamtailor to eliminate recruitment bias. We benchmark pay and progression regularly, and our Real Living Wage employer status speaks to our commitment to fairness and equity. With a near-even gender balance (120 male / 102 female), we’re proud of the progress made—and focused on the work ahead. 

Learning at HLM Architects is about creating opportunity, not hierarchy. From apprenticeships and work experience placements to leadership roles, we’re committed to helping people grow, regardless of entry point. Our school outreach programme helps develop future talent and offers employees the chance to coach, mentor and share skills—creating a ripple effect across our industry. 

As Apprenticeship Trailblazers, we continue to work with educators to shape curricula that match the needs of modern architecture. In April 2024, we promoted a new Chair, MD, and Operations Director from within—proof that our 10-year leadership succession plan is bearing fruit. 

Social Impact as a Shared Responsibility

Our purpose extends beyond studio walls. Through our updated Social Value strategy and Connect Days, we commit 2% of project fees to outreach activities that create opportunity, boost diversity in the profession, and give back to our communities. 

Whether it’s through volunteering, mentoring, or engaging the next generation of architects, our people are encouraged—and empowered—to drive meaningful impact. It’s no wonder that when 250 of us gathered in Sheffield for our annual FESTMas event, the collective sense of pride, connection, and purpose was so palpable. 

Being shortlisted for “Best Architect Employer” is not the destination. It’s recognition of a journey of a we’re proud to be on, one where people always come first.

We know that when our people thrive, our practice does too. That’s why we’ll continue to nurture, challenge, and support every individual, always listening and always evolving. 

Because at HLM Architects, success doesn’t belong to any one person. It belongs to all of us. And that’s exactly how we like it.