The 18th edition of the list of UK employers is split into four categories covering the 25 best big companies, 100 best mid-sized, 100 best SMEs and 100 best not-for-profit. Overall, the views of 261,559 employees determined the rankings this year, while a total 799 organisations registered to take part in this year’s survey.

The list ranks companies based on the views and opinions of their employees, who are surveyed about their experience of their workplace environment, leadership, development opportunities, wellbeing, pay, benefits and a company’s commitment to ‘giving something back’.

EY’s tenth spot in the big category made it the highest place professional services firm, and saw the Big Four player move up seven places on its 2017 ranking.

Steve Varley, UK Chairman at EY, said: ‘To be named one of the UK’s best big companies to work for again, is a fantastic achievement. It is recognition for our people who work hard every day, to create a positive environment where everyone can thrive.

‘It also strengthens our focus on what we can do more of, to be the UK’s most inclusive and favoured employer, both now and in the future.’

In an internal survey, 84% of EY respondents said they work flexibly and 67% believed it improved wellbeing. Over half of respondents said the firm’s flexible working culture was a key factor in joining or remaining with the firm.

Deloitte was the only other Big Four firm to be in the top 25 listing, and took thirteenth place, up from 18 last year. Top placed financial services firm was TSB, at four, with Santander a new entrant at number fifteen. AXA dropped down three places to nineteenth.

Sunday Times Best 100 companies listings are here.

Report by Pat Sweet