The scheme, which was entered in the ‘Most Effective Use of a Voluntary Benefits Plan’ category is a lifestyle led discount scheme which rewards loyalty by providing staff with the opportunity to purchase items at discounted prices.

 

The scheme, which was devised inhouse by gem staff member, Ben Clarke, has also assisted in the forging of strong team bonds within the workforce as a number of the discounts offer staff the opportunity to socialise away from operational constraints.

 

Anita Acheson, Human Resources Director at gem said: “With Sapphire there’s a direct link to staff retention as it’s seen as a staff benefit.

 

“gem is all about providing good customer experiences and the more

experience our people have of using other customer services the more experienced they will become in dealing with our own customers.”

 

Every staff member that relocates to gem is offered assistance, with travel expenses, accommodation in a city centre based Bed and Breakfast and access to a relocation advisor within gem from whom they will receive ongoing help. The Sapphire Scheme also helps with the familiarisation of the area and aids a smoother transition into life at gem.

 

According to a survey on gem’s staff motivation, the Sapphire scheme has contributed to the level of staff satisfaction more than doubling over a two year period.

 

The winners of the awards will be announced at the Hilton, Park Lane, London on the 18th June 2008.