LEDC Encouraging London’s Best Businesses to Step Forward

The London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) is asking London’s best employers to step forward to nominate themselves for national recognition. The LEDC’s Director of Workforce Development, Jeny Wallace, recently attended a Summit of Canada’s Top 100 Employers of 2004, and believes that, although no London employers were among the companies recognized this year, there are a number who may qualify. The list of 100 Top Employers is compiled annually by Mediacorp and is published in book form and in the October MacLean’s magazine. The list is an excellent source for those looking for companies that offer progressive recruiting and employment practices. The 2004 Top Employer Summit, held for the first time this year, was a two-day conference designed to showcase the practices of the top employers. Held in March, the Summit featured over 30 guest speakers including 20 senior HR managers of companies that made the “Top 100” list. Jeny Wallace has prepared a report of key learnings, offering useful HR tips and ideas gleaned from the Summit. Her report is available on the LEDC’s website. “LEDC’s research shows that recruiting and retaining skilled workers is a challenge and concern for London employers,” said Wallace. “The Summit provided lots of valuable information on everything from training programs and performance appraisal, to vacation, health and financial benefits.” Wallace said she hopes that her report will give employers some fresh ideas to help attract and retain the best workers and, “We also hope that more London employers will be inspired to submit a nomination for the 2005 Top 100.” Applications for consideration for the 2005 listing must be submitted by April 30th. To be eligible the company/organization must meet two criteria: they must be considered a leader in their industry in attracting and retaining quality employees; and they must be growing. The application form for the 2005 edition is available at: http://www.CanadasTop100.com/apply/index.html and the LEDC’s report can be found at www.ledc.com under Publications - Workforce Development. Wallace noted that Meridian Technologies of Strathroy made the 2004 Top 100 and hopes that London companies will be well represented in the 2005 list. “We know they’re out there. We just have to get them to step forward.” For more information contact: Jeny Wallace London Economic Development Corporation Ph: 519-661-4526 Email: jwallace@ledc.com