The University of Strathclyde has been named Scottish Top Employer of the Year at a glittering ceremony that took place last night in the Radisson Hotel in Glasgow.

The award, sponsored by Trump Turnberry, was the outstanding accolade amongst a roll call of plaudits that were presented to companies of all sizes during The Herald Top Employer Awards, in association with s1jobs.

During the ceremony the University, which was also named as Top Large Employer,  was praised by the judges for its commitment to employee development, inclusivity and positive workplace culture, using a data-driven approach to drive growth based on core values.

Amongst those honoured during the evening were Safehinge Primera, suppliers of security doors to hospitals and educational facilities, who were named winners of the Best Flexible Working Initiative for their commitment to work-life balance, while NHS24 received the Best Internal Communications award thanks to its supportive culture and communications strategies designed to empower staff for success.

Herald Top Employer Awards 2024Herald Top Employer Awards 2024 (Image: Gordon Terris) Infrastructure company Balfour Beatty was praised by the judges for their innovative approach to training entrants to the industry leading them to win the Best Apprenticeship/Graduate Programme award sponsored by Arnold Clark, while law firm, Shepherd and Wedderburn won both the Top Employer - Medium Business and Best Diversity and Inclusion Dynamic in the Workplace titles for their commitment to inclusion, equality and social mobility.

Find out more about Newsquest Scotland Events

There was a double win too for Glasgow-based solicitors, Jones Whyte, who won both the Top Employer of the Year - Small Business, and Employee Career Development awards for their adoption of strategic initiatives that fostered employee growth and strengthened organisational culture, while the Best Training and Skills Development Initiative category was won by social care charity, Cornerstone for what the judges described as its: “bold values and robust three-stage training program that had effectively addressed recruitment and retention challenges.”

Meanwhile, business management company Connect Three, which was selected for its value-driven approach, and which prioritises employee well being, was named winner of the Inspiring Employee Culture Award.

Afterwards, Lynne McBurney, Group People Director, Arnold Clark, said: “Congratulations to all the winners, especially in the Best Apprenticeship/Graduate Programme category, which we sponsor. Arnold Clark has been thrilled to be part of The Herald’s Top Employer Awards and in recognising the hard work that employers across the country are putting in to bring out the maximum potential of every employee.”

Lisa Gallagher, co-founder and director at Flexibility Works, sponsors of the Best Flexible Working Initiative award said: “Many thanks to The Herald for a fabulous event last night. The deserving winners show how we can - and should - do business in Scotland. We hope they inspire other organisations to make positive changes, such as embracing more flexible working because that’s good for people and for business.”

Craig Anderson, sales director, s1jobs said: “We thoroughly enjoyed being part of this year’s The Herald Top Employer Awards. The quality and innovation demonstrated by the finalists was truly impressive, and it was inspiring to see the diverse ways companies are supporting and empowering their teams.  We were proud to support the awards because they shine a light on the businesses that prioritise their people, setting a benchmark for others to follow.

Mike Smith, head of SafeDeposits Scotland, sponsors of the Inspiring Employee Culture Award, said: “We’re thrilled to have been involved in this year’s Top Employer Awards and send our congratulations to all winners and finalists. To be recognised in this way is a real testament to the cultures of these workplaces, and all employers shortlisted should be proud of this achievement.

And Nic Oldham, general manager, Trump Turnberry, sponsors of the Scottish Top Employer of the Year award, said:"The awards have truly been a remarkable celebration of excellence. It has been inspiring to see the dedication and passion of the finalists who are setting new standards as employers. Congratulations to all the winners - they are a testament to what can be achieved with visionary leadership, commitment and innovation.”