Markham tops Forbe's list as best city employer

Yorkregion.com
Feb. 8, 2022

The City of Markham was named one of Canada’s Best Employers for 2022 and the best City employer by Forbes for the second consecutive year.

Rankins are based on an independent survey of more than 10,000 Canadian employees working for companies employing at least 500 people in Canada.

Markham ranked in the top two for government services and 15th among the 300 employers on the list, advancing from 18th place in 2021.

Mayor Frank Scarpitti said the rankings are both an honour and reflection of what makes the city great, especially on the heels of a challenging past two years.

“This recognition reaffirms Markham’s position as a leader committed to fostering a welcoming, diverse and inclusive work environment,” he said. “This ranking in the best of times is cause for celebration but given we improved our ranking in the midst of all the current challenges, it’s a testament to our staff’s continued leadership, commitment and hard work.”

Chief administrative officer Andy Taylor said extraordinary things are done by extraordinary people in Markham.

“We are deeply honoured to once again be recognized for our corporate culture and our efforts in providing staff a rewarding and fulfilling career, as well as a welcoming and inclusive workspace," he said.

He added Markham’s strength as an employer lies in its ‘People Plan’, which includes comprehensive onboarding, continuous learning opportunities, a variety of wellness initiatives, transparent communication, and diversity and inclusion.

Employee mental health and wellness as the COVID-19 pandemic continues is also a key focus.

In addition to developing work-from-home guidelines and health and safety guidelines for staff in the field, the City developed new policies to address COVID-19 vaccination and testing, as well as enhancing sick time to address public health requirements to keep staff and the community safe during the pandemic.

“Our recognition as a leading Canadian employer shines a light on the great work being done at the City, alongside other recognized leading employers based in Markham,” said Taylor.

Markham-based companies that also made the cut on this year’s list, include AMD, IBM, Honda, Aviva Insurance, TD Bank, General Motors and GE.

The Region of York for was also recognized as one of Forbes’ Canada’s Best Employers for 2022.

The awards list can be viewed at Forbes.