Step Ahead Named One of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025

We are absolutely delighted to share the news that Step Ahead has been named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025. This prestigious recognition reflects what we’ve always known internally: that Step Ahead is more than just a workplace — it’s a community built on values, purpose, and people who care deeply about making a difference.

This award isn’t about beanbags or benefits (although our team does enjoy some great perks!). It’s about the culture we’ve intentionally built over the past 28 years. One where respect, sincerity, trust, teamwork, and responsibility aren’t just written in our handbook - they’re lived out every day by every team member.

So, what makes Step Ahead one of the UK’s best workplaces?

1. A clear sense of purpose
At Step Ahead, we do things differently. Our mission is to help people - often those who have been overlooked or excluded - gain skills, find employment, and build better futures. From supporting unemployed Londoners into work to helping businesses access remote offshore talent, our staff know that their work changes lives. That sense of purpose is a powerful motivator.

2. A values-led culture
We begin every staff member’s journey with a full-day induction, diving deep into our history, our ethos, and our core values. Every week, our teams come together to celebrate wins, share updates, and support one another. And every month, we bring the entire company together -  virtually - to reconnect, realign, and have fun. Our quarterly team days combine strategic planning with creative play and brainstorming on how we can continuously improve or services for our customers.

3. Employee growth and opportunity
We’ve created an environment where careers can thrive. All roles are advertised internally, and promotions are based on potential, not just tenure. From apprentices to managers, we’ve seen extraordinary journeys within the business. Employees are supported with coaching, mentoring, funded training, and flexible working to help them progress personally and professionally.

4. Recognition, wellbeing, and balance
We don’t just talk about looking after our people - we do it. Online Pilates classes, charity walks, birthday gifts, cultural celebrations, and regular 'thank you' surprises are part of how we show appreciation. We also provide private healthcare, flexible leave, loyalty rewards, and an Employee Assistance Programme to support mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.

5. Trust, flexibility, and autonomy
Step Ahead is proudly 100% remote, and we trust our team to work where and how they work best. We don’t micromanage. Instead, we focus on outcomes, not hours. Staff are empowered to take ownership of their work, knowing they’re supported every step of the way.

The voices behind the award

We’re especially proud that this award is based on anonymous staff feedback. In our most recent employee engagement survey, we achieved 100% participation and an engagement score of 87.7% — well above the 'excellent' benchmark of 75%. Here’s just a taste of what our team had to say:

"I am grateful for my job, for the chances you always give me to improve, grow, and be a better me."

"Our company stands for progression, innovation, and inspiration. We lead the way in these principles and values."

"I have only been at three workplaces before this, but Step Ahead stands out in how it cares for its staff."

"My manager gives me the autonomy to do my job with the tools and experience I have, and guides me when I need it."

A Huge Thank You

To our entire team: this award is yours. It recognises the culture you help to shape every single day. Thank you for bringing your whole selves to work, for lifting one another up, and for staying true to the values that make Step Ahead special.

And to our clients, partners, and community -  thank you for being part of the journey. We will continue to grow, evolve, and lead with integrity.

Work with one of the UK’s Best Places to Work

Whether you're a jobseeker looking to build your future or a business looking for high-quality, purpose-driven talent, Step Ahead is here to help. We offer government-funded training and employability programmes for unemployed Londoners seeking work, commercial recruitment services for UK employers, and Remote Workforce Solutions for businesses ready to think differently about how they build teams.

Want to partner with an award-winning team that leads with values and delivers with care? Get in touch to find out how we can support your goals.

At Step Ahead, we don’t just offer jobs. We empower people and enable businesses.