VTNZ on top of workers' ratings

VTNZ has received this year's top award in the IBM Kenexa Best Workplaces Survey. Photo / Ross Setford

The best workplaces have been named - and employees at the winning companies say communication, teamwork and a strong sense of values are what set them apart.

Vehicle Testing New Zealand beat 227 other New Zealand companies to receive this year's top award in the IBM Kenexa Best Workplaces Survey.

It also received the award for the best enterprise workplace, as defined by a company with 750 or more employees.

The awards were compiled from employees' ratings in a confidential online survey. Participants graded their workplaces and employers across 12 key categories, including leadership, culture, recognition and engagement.

More than 32,000 employees from the public and private sectors participated in the survey.

VTNZ Sylvia Park acting supervisor Nadeem Shariff said his workplaces' team approach made all the difference.

"We work as a team, we understand each other, and everyone understands the goal ... customer satisfaction.

"We have great managers ... they encourage team-building."

Mr Shariff said employees had variety in their work and met many different people every day, which helped make it a great place to work.

He said his managers were always flexible with staff and "look after" everyone.

Overland Footwear was awarded best large workplace and Josie Conybeer, assistant manager for Overland Man in Newmarket, said communication across the company set it apart.

"We have a weekly magazine that keeps people really informed about what goes on in support office and in other stores."

The best small workplace was awarded to Hyundai Wairarapa Eastwood Motor Group, which was a finalist last year.

Sales manager Gary Allan said he put the company's win down to the fact it was run by "down to earth, everyday people".

IBM awards spokesman Leighton Abbot congratulated VTNZ on its continued success and ongoing commitment to providing a great working environment for its staff.

Forty-two companies reached "finalist" status across the employee size categories. Three category winners received top place for the second year in a row.

Best Workplaces Winners

• Hyundai Wairarapa Eastwood Motor Group - Best Small Workplace
• Giltrap Audi - Best Small-Medium Workplace
• Mars New Zealand - Best Medium-Large Workplace
• Overland Footwear - Best Large Workplace
• VTNZ - Best Enterprise Workplace

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