Wazoku Makes the Top 50 of UK’s Best Workplaces 2021
Wazoku, the innovation‑scaling startup, slid into the middle‑tier of the 2021 Great Place to Work UK’s “Best Workplaces” list, snagging the 50th spot. It’s a big deal for a company that’s still in its first year of operation.
Why the Buzz Matters
Out of 183 UK employers featuring on the list, Wazoku stood out for fostering a workplace rooted in trust, pride, and camaraderie—even during the chaos of the COVID‑19 pandemic. The founders weren’t just chasing growth; they were building an environment where people actually want to stay.
“From day one, we’ve wanted Wazoku to be a place anyone would love to work at,” says CEO Simon Hill. “A company’s worth is measured by its people, so keeping our culture healthy and joyful is essential for our own success. Getting recognized feels like a milestone for all of us.”
Global Presence, Local Benefits
- UK offices in London & Bristol
- International branches: US & Denmark
- “Unlimited holidays” – because vacation isn’t a perk, it’s a right
- Office hackathons – turning the office into a playground of ideas
- Flexible working – work where it suits you best
- Food & beverages on the house
- Comprehensive pension schemes
- Annual summer parties – think less “meet‑and‑greet,” more “celebrate with a tan!”
- Mental‑health services – because headspace matters
- Perkbox & continuous training opportunities
Living the Values
What truly sets Wazoku apart is a genuine, long‑term commitment to its core values: passion, customer focus, collaboration, and accountability. They’re not just about buzzwords; they’re about making a real social impact, championing diversity, and greening the future.
In 2020, Wazoku became one of the first innovation firms to officially achieve carbon neutrality. Employees were consulted on which offset projects made the cut, illustrating the company’s openness and democratic ethos.
Employee‑First Culture: The Numbers Speak
- 100% of staff report fair treatment across LGBTQ+ lines and that special events are celebrated
- 98% say fairness extends to gender, age, and ethnicity, and that they’re proud to name-drop Wazoku when chatting friends
- Wazoku’s current Director of Software Engineering was once an intern – proof the company tops talent from the ground up
Simon adds, “We top‑grade mental health initiatives, keeping flexibility at the core and ensuring every team member has the support they need.”
How Rankings Are Calculated
The Great Place to Work review hinges on a comprehensive employee survey that accounts for roughly 75% of an organization’s final score. The remaining quarter comes from a Culture Audit questionnaire that digs into HR practices, leadership, and company culture.
Wazoku’s standout score reflects more than policy; it’s a testament to a culture that genuinely cares and thrives on active dialogue.
