It's gold for team phil&teds

phil&teds has won Team Gold at this year’s Wellington Gold Awards, celebrating the excellence and enterprise of businesses in the region. The award-winning, international juvenile products company was recognised for its investment in people, HR and wellness programmes.

Chief cook & bottle washer Campbell Gower says he’s ‘chuffed’ phil&teds is regarded as THE place to work in the capital.

“Our culture is pretty fast paced and dynamic so we’re not for everyone - but we’re genuinely proud of it. We empower our ‘phil&teds heads’ through trust and opportunity, and their work goes all over the world. We let them have a go and learn along the way.

“From open conversations to individual development, we make sure we regularly ask our troops how they’re going and take action to improve all things phil&teds. Our quarterly health checks keep us on track, and aim to make our company an even greater place to work.”

Renowned for its pioneering designs, the company also enjoys supporting its staff in innovative ways. In order to help staff balance work and family life, as well as make returning to work easier for mums and dads that are new parents, the company converted a warehouse into a fully licensed daycare centre - subsidised by Gower himself.

“It’s the only one of its kind in the capital, and quite possibly New Zealand, entirely staffed and managed in-house. Being just downstairs from our main office allows parents to pop down for a visit - be it for some inspiration or to help with emergency colouring in!

“We support our heads in their career and parenting journey, helping to keep staff as well as their families both happy and connected. Of course, not all phil&teds heads have kids, but they still benefit from non-stressed co-workers not having to race across town in rush hour traffic to avoid being fined for late play centre pick-ups.”

Gower says while having an in-house daycare centre, staff gym, games room and onsite café all help when it comes to workplace wellness, the company’s focus is on the full employee experience.

“People are our gold here. We hire the best, back them to succeed and applaud them when they do - celebrating not only the successes but also the hard work behind the scenes. This is just so important. Everyone wants to be part of an organisation that appreciates and recognises the work of its staff.

“It’s through this level of support that our heads embrace action, stay motivated, grow and achieve great things.”

Established in 1999, the Wellington Gold Awards include eight main industry categories as well as three best practice awards. A total of 35 judges assess the entries in each category.

The winners of the 2018 Wellington Gold Awards, held in association with The Dominion Post, were announced at a gala dinner at TSB Bank Arena on July 5.

Mr Gower hopes the recent win will further highlight phil&teds as a company that goes the extra mile helping staff to achieve their full potential.

“We support our heads and the things they care about most. From bringing your pet to work every day and professional development courses to having the ability to hit the in-house gym or eat at the in-house restaurant, if it’s important to our heads, it’s important to phil&teds.”