Hawksmoor among best small companies to work for

The company entered the list for the first time this year at number 36. Its citation said: “Contrary to the ‘kitchen nightmare’ of popular imagination, this London restaurant business treats everyone fairly, with no intimidation.” Co-founder Will Beckett said: “We want people, like a poster I have, who will ‘work hard and be nice to people’. These are the absolute basics, and if people don’t do either one of these things, they don’t last.”

The Sunday Times said people at Hawksmoor were inspired by their leadership and encouraged to express themselves. “People are encouraged to ‘be themselves at their best’ not to conform, which can make people unhappy at work. You might spot an armful of tattoos or interesting ear piercings on passing staff.” Assistant bar manager Niamh Scott said: “People ask why everybody is so nice here. It’s because we enjoy ourselves without having to be in uniforms—it is about personality.” Training is strong and there is a strong sense of family and fun among teams at Hawksmoor’s three restaurants, the citation added.

The Sunday Times’ 100 Best Companies list is compiled each year from a survey of companies’ performance on factors including leadership, wellbeing, personal and professional growth. The list was topped overall by PR firm Shine Communications, which represents several drinks brands among other clients. For the full Sunday Times list, click here.

Living Ventures has meanwhile revealed that it has won a place on the next list in the Sunday Times’ series—for the best mid-sized companies to work for. Its citation says: “Living Ventures has the right ingredients when it comes to employee engagement, with staff reporting a strong team ethic, great opportunities for development, a strong sense of wellbeing and positive leadership.” The full list of best mid-sized companies will be published in the Sunday Times this Sunday (4 March).