Exciting Milestone: North East Companies Shine in UK’s Best Workplaces 2026
In a remarkable celebration of workplace excellence, employees at ten North East companies are experiencing a wave of pride as their organizations have been recognized among the best in the UK. The prestigious list, compiled by Great Place To Work, showcases 350 companies that exemplify exceptional workplace culture based on employee feedback and culture audits.
Notable Achievements
This year, prominent firms such as Home Group, Northumbrian Water, and Gentoo have made impressive strides in the rankings, illustrating a strong commitment to employee satisfaction and workplace engagement. Home Group, based in Newcastle, ranked 17th in the 'super large' category, with a commendable 80% of employees stating it is a great place to work. Vicki Carruthers, the director of people at Home Group, expressed her pride in the continued recognition, emphasizing the company's values and the importance of employee input.
Inclusivity and Culture Shifts
Northumbrian Water also celebrated its achievement of being named one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for the sixth consecutive year, now ranked 28th on the super large list. Elouise Leonard-Cross, group people director, highlighted the importance of their inclusive culture, where 90% of employees actively participate in sharing their experiences, showcasing a genuine commitment to employee well-being.
Growth and Community Focus
Meanwhile, Gentoo's ranking at number 32 reflects its dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive work culture that empowers employees. Susan Fulton, executive director of customer, people, and engagement at Gentoo, emphasized their commitment to valuing and supporting staff, which ultimately benefits their service delivery to customers. This holistic approach to employee engagement underpins their success and enhances their reputation as a top employer in the region.
Emerging Innovators
The acknowledgment extends beyond traditional industries, with unique players like Atom Bank—ranked 31st in the large category—emphasizing their innovative workplace culture. Helen Wilson, Chief Operations Officer at Atom, remarked on the importance of creating a thriving workplace where every employee feels valued, a vision that has already borne fruit as they celebrate their first-time entry into the prestigious list.
The collective achievements of these North East organizations not only reflect their commitment to employees but also contribute positively to the region's economic landscape. By prioritizing workplace culture and employee satisfaction, these companies are not just enhancing their own success but are also setting a benchmark for others to follow. The recognition experienced this year is both a badge of honor and an inspiration, paving the way for continued growth and improvements in the North East's employment sector.
