Competing with Cisco Systems, Johnson & Johnson and Main Roads WA as finalists, Henry Davis York impressed judges because it had developed a contemporary work culture built on trust and mutual respect, they said.

Judges were influenced by the firm’s management team, which leads by example, thus enabling work/life balance for staff in a range of circumstances. Management was to be congratulated for their focus on sensible working hours, “rare for management teams — and especially those in the legal profession”.

Judges were swayed by the firm’s willingness to include carers to enable staff to participate in offsites, and its 12 weeks maternity leave policy. As well, because the firm was willing to redesign the practice of work, this had a positive impact on the business and meant a considerable reduction in staff turnover, judges said.