Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/604104
CANADA'S EQUIPMENT LEASING EXPERTS 18 THE SAME SPIRIT OF INNOVATION THAT DRIVES WINNIPEG�BASED NATIONAL LEASING TO ACHIEVE 20 PER CENT GROWTH RATES HAS INSPIRED A WELLNESS PROGRAM AIMING TO STRENGTHEN THE COMPANY'S GREATEST ASSETS � ITS PEOPLE. No ordinary health initiative, National Leasing's program is a creative blend of elements promoting physical, emotional and mental wellness through nutrition, fitness and fun. "At National Leasing, it's simple — we believe happy employees equal happy customers," says Grant Shaw, Vice-President of Strategy and Culture at National Leasing. "Our employees are excited, energetic and enthusiastic and this is proven through our company earning over 80 per cent employee engagement," says Shaw. "This high-level employee engagement allows us to develop loyal, long-term relationships with our customers and our community." Beyond the many onsite activities National Leasing offers, it runs a week-long "Not Myself Today" campaign in an effort to reduce stigma and promote mental health in the workplace. The company offered group classes in meditation and tai chi for staff, and provided displays and discussion boards to educate employees about mental health. The week's grand finale featured a Fitbit giveaway, smoothies for all emplyees and an office-wide dance party to the Pharrell Williams song Happy. "We work hard, and in return, we have a lot of fun," says Shaw. "There's no better way to unwind at work than taking in a yoga class in our fitness studio or maybe a little friendly competition between co-workers at a lunchtime ball hockey game in our parking lot." Those opportunities are important to staff members. "Having the chance to take charge of my health and wellness while I'm at work and not just at home is part of the reason I love working here," says Tina Rochon, Senior Credit Analyst. "It means a lot to work for a company that recognizes this and makes it possible." National Leasing takes the work-life balance of staff to heart. "Our employees are our greatest asset, and if giving them the proper resources can help them live happy, balanced lives, then of course we're going to do it," says Shaw. The company website (nationalleasing.com) details career opportunities and provides information on additional benefits. Among them are solid medical and dental packages, 100 per cent reimbursement for professional development courses, mentoring and flexible work schedules to allow staff to participate in exercise classes or pursue volunteer work. "Having the chance to take charge of my health and wellness while I'm at work and not just at home is part of the reason I love working here" National Leasing staff at the United Way Winnipeg Plane Pull. Submitted photo. NATIONAL LEASING National Leasing: Healthy staff, healthy business FREE WELLNESS ACCESS FOR EMPLOYEES: • Onsite gym and fitness studio • Outdoor sporting equipment to be used in adjacent field (Frisbee, bocce, ball hockey, baseball, volleyball) • Bikes • Massage chair • Onsite massage therapist • Nap room • Lounge with table games, TVs and full kitchen • Baskets of fruit • 200-plus piece art collection • $200 wellness credit • Healthy lunch options for only $4 • Instructor-led fitness classes for only $5 MANITOBA'S TOP EMPLOYERS