The Top Employer Institute recognizes organizations that create excellent workplace experiences for their employees, and Avanade is thrilled to have achieved this distinction once again because it means we remain focused on prioritizing the success and well-being of our people.

In addition to the regional European award, Avanade retained its Top Employer status in Belgium, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and the UK, and this year was awarded the distinction in Sweden as well. The Avanade team in Sweden took numerous steps to raise awareness within a competitive talent marketing and care for employees this year through inspiring work and a commitment to personal and professional success. It’s great to see their efforts rewarded with this recognition.

What does this award mean? The Top Employer Institute carefully researches employee offerings in the following categories: talent strategy, workforce planning, onboarding, learning and development, performance management, leadership development, career succession and management, compensation and benefits, and culture. Results are then independently audited so that outstanding employee conditions are verified.

Top Employer Institute CEO David Plink says that employers who put their people first are the ones most likely to create the excellent workplace experiences that earn this distinction. For Avanade Europe President Darren Hardman, that’s not a surprise.

“We are delighted to have been recognized again as a Top European Employer,” Darren says. “We know that the foundation of a great workplace lies in a culture of trust and engagement, which is why we continually strive to have an open dialogue with our employees to ensure they are fully supported to realize their career goals. In particular, we’re very proud of the initiatives we’ve developed to support diversity and inclusion at Avanade and how we provide constant opportunities for employees to learn new skills and move around the organization.”

Europe HR Lead Daniela Fischer echoes Hardman’s emphasis on putting employees first.

“To us, to be recognized as a Top European Employer is a signal that our goal to put our people first lines up with reality,” Daniela says. “To be successful, it’s not enough for clients to be confident in our abilities and happy with the work we do; we must also create an environment where our employees have all the resources they need to live fulfilling professional and personal lives.”