Orchid is 20th best big company to work for

The Orchid Group is the 20th best big company to work for, according to the Sunday Times​ guide to the best 25 big companies to work for with over 5,000 employees.

Orchid was praised for its clear communication and strong team spirit with 84% of staff members saying they had fun working together.

The 250-strong pub operator was placed 5th overall for well being and staff reported a real sense of family amongst colleagues.

Managers were commended for being great role models (68%) and staff felt they could talk openly and honestly to their employees.

Orchid finished top in two areas — staff haven't suffered work related stress in the last year (81%) and that they aren't under so much pressure at work that they can't concentrate (79%).

Several small touches and incentive schemes help to motivate staff at Orchid.

Chief executive Rufus Hall often sends a personal "well done" or "thank you" note to staff along with flowers or champagne while a recent incentive scheme saw 20 managers and their partners receive an all expenses paid trip to New York for 20 managers and their partners, are also on offer.

Staff in each pub also vote their most valuable team member each month, who receive a £20 voucher.

"People are the heartbeat of our business and we ensure their wellbeing comes first," said chief executive Rufus Hall.

"We have a strong family atmosphere at Orchid and look after our people as individuals. We make sure talents are nurtured and career goals achieved whilst also keeping fun high on the agenda."

Nandos finished top of the list of best big companies to work for. Inventive Lesiure came in at number 34.