The City of Maple Ridge has been named one of the best places to work in B.C. for the first time in an annual competition.
The BC’s Top Employers rankings try to recognize B.C. employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work.
A press release from city hall says the honour highlights the city’s inclusive, collaborative and innovative workplace culture.
“Being recognized as a top employer reflects our ongoing efforts to enhance employee well-being and foster a citizen-centric culture,” said city CAO Scott Hartman. “Only when employees are well positioned to thrive personally and professionally, do we achieve excellence and innovation in service to our residents.”
“Engaged employees are at the heart of our ability to deliver results, and they are truly deserving of this recognition. It’s a testament to their professionalism, hard work and commitment to a job well done.”
Now in its 19th year, the annual BC’s Top Employers competition is organized by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers to recognize progressive and forward-thinking employers that provide exceptional workplaces. Employers are evaluated using eight criteria: physical workplace; work atmosphere and social; health, financial and family benefits; vacation and time off; employee communications; performance management; training and skills development; and community involvement.
Other winners include BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, Okanagan College and BC Hydro.
The city works to strengthen its commitment to providing mental health support and to anti-discrimination and anti-racism – including establishing its first equity, diversity and inclusion committee.
“By caring for, developing and valuing our people, we continue to break down our silos, empower our teams and ensure an equity, diversity and inclusion lens on all our people programming,” said Michelle Lewis, executive director of human resources. “The focus on authenticity and encouraging innovation has unlocked new possibilities.”
The city said an employee engagement survey revealed a strong desire for more opportunities for dialogue and input. The feedback led to a variety of organizational changes that empowered staff with skills and resources, encouraging innovation and risk-taking. Employees are also bringing forward innovative ideas aimed at improving the city’s response to citizen needs.
Brian Patel, a Maple Ridge Youth Recreation Coordinator with 30 years of experience, has noted a positive shift.
“We are being trusted to make decisions because we’re the front-line in interacting with the community, and they’re listening to us in the same way that we listen to each other. This is a wonderful place to work – the accolade is very well deserved.”
Maple Ridge is one of the fastest-growing cities in Metro Vancouver with a population of close to 100,000.
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