Why is Paxton such a great place to work?

Sussex-based global technology company Paxton is one of the best places to work in the UK, according to the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work for list. 

The company, which designs and manufactures security systems, has appeared on the list for two years running. HR Director Nicola O’Donnell tells us why.

What’s the benefit of being on the Sunday Times Best Companies list? 

The list is compiled using employee feedback, which is gathered independently by Best Companies. The feedback gives us a valuable indication of how people are feeling and tells us what we’re doing well, and what needs improving. We want to be an employer of choice so we can attract the best and brightest talent. To be placed among the 100 best companies helps put us on the map but a huge amount of work happens before we get to that point and will continue far beyond it. 

What’s key to becoming a great place to work? 

There are many different factors but our people are the most important part of the business. People make a company great and key to them feeling engaged and empowered is the belief that they can make a significant contribution to the company’s success. Anyone from Paxton can make change happen. We continually listen to our employees to ensure we are evolving and changing to meet the demands of being a modern employer of choice 

How do companies engage people? 

The Sunday Times Best Companies list is based on eight key factors of workplace engagement: leadership, my manager, my company, personal growth, my team, wellbeing, getting a fair deal and giving something back. As a modern, progressive company we’re continually asking employees how they feel about these areas and asking ourselves how we can improve. 

Paxton has seen rapid growth in recent years but that’s only been possible because our employees are engaged and believe in what we do. 

What’s the most important factor? 

For me, it’s My Manager. Managers have the biggest impact. Having a great manager who can create a challenging and supportive working environment where people can learn, grow, develop and do a great job is a key aspect in our employee engagement. Simple actions are very impactful on a day to day basis to ensure or people feel valued and can make a difference in the work that they do.