Development Bank of Wales: A Beacon of Workplace Excellence

The Development Bank of Wales has recently been recognized as the UK's best large company in the financial services and insurance sector, according to the esteemed UK’s Best Workplaces 2026 list compiled by Great Place to Work. This remarkable achievement not only positions the bank at the top of its category but also ranks it 14th among the top 100 large workplaces across the nation.

A Culture of Trust and Collaboration

Giles Thorley, the chief executive of the Development Bank of Wales, expressed immense pride in the bank's recognition, highlighting that this accolade is a testament to the hard work of its employees. He emphasized that the organization's culture is fundamentally built on trust, collaboration, and a collective commitment to support businesses and communities throughout Wales. Thorley stated, "Our culture has always been built on trust, collaboration and a shared commitment to supporting businesses and communities across Wales. That matters just as much as the work we deliver."

Employee Satisfaction and Community Contribution

This recognition marks the second consecutive year that the Development Bank of Wales has made it onto the national list, reflecting robust employee feedback and a thorough evaluation of workplace culture. Astonishingly, 89% of the staff reported that it is a great place to work, surpassing the benchmark for UK Best Large Workplaces by five percent. Furthermore, an impressive 95% of employees feel positive about how the bank contributes to the community.

A Supporting and Purposeful Environment

Benedict Gautrey, managing director of Great Place to Work UK, commended the bank for its accomplishments, stating, "We wholeheartedly endorse that what's 'better for business' aligns with what's 'better for people,' ultimately contributing to a better world." Employee testimonials consistently describe the Development Bank of Wales as a supportive workplace with a 'fantastic' culture, highlighting the strong sense of purpose and teamwork among colleagues. One employee remarked, "People care about their work and each other more than anywhere else I have worked."