The best HR teams of 2026

March 3, 2026 7:00 AM

HR teams are being asked to do more than ever — and the organizations earning recognition this year are meeting the moment. The 2026 Best HR Teams list highlights 30 companies whose people strategies are strengthening culture, supporting retention and helping their businesses navigate an increasingly complex workplace.

The honorees were selected with the help of Best Companies Group based on each company's policies and benefits and an employee satisfaction survey.

Read more: Best HR Teams 2024

Employee feedback from Best Companies Group's Employee Benchmark Report suggests HR is operating as a true strategic partner for many of this year's honorees. Scores were especially strong in Leadership & Planning (89%), indicating employees largely understand their organizations' direction and have confidence in senior leadership. On average, the highest-ranking executive has been in the role 8.4 years, underscoring the role leadership stability can play in sustaining engagement.

Manager effectiveness continues to stand out as a key differentiator. The Relationship with Supervisor category posted the highest overall average at 92%, reflecting strong perceptions of fairness, respect and support for employee development. Culture and communication metrics also remained solid, with employees reporting high levels of collaboration, inclusion and trust across their organizations.

Employer program data in the Employee Benchmark Report helps explain the strong engagement levels. Many participating companies report formal initiatives to recruit and retain diverse talent and to support employees who may need workplace accommodations. Flexibility has also become table stakes: All participating organizations offer telecommuting, with participation still well above pre-pandemic norms.

Benefits and well-being programs continue to anchor the employee value proposition, though compensation remains the most closely watched pressure point. Employees from these companies shared the benefits and culture adds that make their work sustainable, fulfilling and even fun. Read on for more details about this year's winners of the Best HR Teams.

30. Barnes Dennig

Cincinnati, Ohio

What makes Barnes Dennig a great place to work: As we continue navigating the everyday challenges our employees face, we're continuously evaluating what's valuable and meaningful to them in driving their success. No longer does one size fit all, so as an organization we have continued to push the boundaries of allowing for flexibility. Whether it be the physical location of where, to the hours of when, to the types of clients, or to the path they take, it's all about giving our employees the opportunity to shape what fits their current situation. People aren't static and we recognize their work environment can't be, either.

29. CLA

Livingston, New Jersey

What makes CLA a great place to work: The first is a growth mindset, reflecting our belief that every person has inherent worth and value, possesses dignity, should be respected, and is capable of achieving their dreams. The second is that we welcome and care for the whole person, supported by our culture of belonging with an emphasis on building relationships. Third, we listen with empathy and commit to action, reflected by a vast array of genuine efforts to understand the full experience with our purpose. Any organization can print words that express values, culture, mission, vision, purpose, and more. What makes an organization a best place to work is how those words are lived. The qualities that make our organization a best place to work are rooted in what's shared on paper and then amplified through the lived experiences of our people.

28. HomeTrust Bank

Asheville, North Carolina

What makes HomeTrust Bank a great place to work: At HomeTrust Bank, we are committed to fostering a culture where our employees feel a sense of belonging and motivated to bring their best selves to work each day. We offer opportunities for personal and professional growth, encourage diverse perspectives, and welcome all backgrounds and experiences. Our unique culture outlines how we work with our customers, our partners, and each other and sets us apart from other banks. At HomeTrust Bank, we don't just talk about creating a great place to work — we live it every day.

27. Lamont, Hanley and Associates

Manchester, New Hampshire

What makes Lamont, Hanley and Associates a great place to work: At our inception, Lamont, Hanley & Associates, Inc. redefined the collection industry with our customer service approach. Our methodology incorporates sales techniques with financial guidance to provide your customers with a program that results in clearing their balance in a non-confrontational, business-like manner. This process results in a high liquidation and maintains a professional image for our company and our clients. We combine this with our collectors' abilities to resolve disputes and expedite files, making us unique in the collection industry.

26. Peoples State Bank

Wausau, Wisconsin

What makes Peoples State Bank a great place to work? Peoples excels as a "best place to work" for several key reasons. We have created an award-winning culture and been recognized for it. We consistently rank on American Banker's Best Banks to Work For list, going strong for six years and running. We've also been recognized in Marathon County as the Best Place to Work. Peoples also offers employees desirable benefits and real investment opportunities for professional growth. The bank boasts a competitive compensation structure, parental leave, EAP, wellness incentives, a bank-wide incentive program, disability and life insurance, generous paid and volunteer time off, and a rare 6% 401k match. Employees are encouraged to attend training and development conferences and classes to strengthen their skillsets to move them forward.

25. Amica Mutual Insurance Company

Lincoln, Rhode Island

What makes Amica Mutual Insurance Company a great place to work: If you ask any of our employees what makes Amica a great place to work, they would say, "It's the people, the lasting friendships, the care and concern for each other, the financial stability, and Amica's focus on supporting the communities that make Amica special." Many employees have shared that during both happy occasions and challenging times, their coworkers have supported them just as much, if not more, than their own families. Employees stay at Amica longer than at many other companies, not only because there are opportunities for advancement as a promote-from-within organization, but also because Amica's core values — Inclusive, Customer-Centric, Responsible, Empathetic, Accountable, Trustworthy, and Ethical (ICREATE) — align with their own. "

24. Berje Inc

Carteret, New Jersey

What makes Berje Inc a great place to work: At Berje, we believe our greatest asset is our people. As a third-generation, family-owned leader in the essential oils industry with over 70 years of history, Berjé combines deep-rooted tradition with a future-focused drive for innovation. We create an environment where employees thrive — through flexible work schedules, direct access to leadership, and robust development programs like One-on-One Manager Coaching, our Women's Leadership Group, and Emerging Leaders initiatives. Our culture celebrates diversity, integrity, and accountability, empowering team members at every level to grow, lead, and make meaningful contributions inside and outside the organization. From long-standing partnerships with global farmers to active participation in STEM and charitable initiatives, we foster purpose in every role.

23. New Home Star

Elmhurst, Illinois

What makes New Home Star a great place to work? We are proud to offer the most exciting company culture in home building, which has helped us secure more workplace awards in the last two years than any other firm in the industry. Our competitive pay, vigorous career paths, and employee perks like free healthcare options only go so far. It's our employees that make New Home Star an incredible place to work. And it all starts at the top. Our founder, Dave Rice, has set the standard for a supportive and affirming work environment. His leadership and the executive team have fueled 17 years of double-digit growth through the most comprehensive training curriculum for new home sales and the leading sales enablement platform, New Home Connect, built in-house.

22. Horizon Health Services

Getzville, New York

What makes Horizon Health Services a great place to work? Horizon Health Services focuses on being a Best Place to Work due to its dedication to employee well-being, professional growth and a mission-driven approach to healthcare. A few of the areas of focus are: Employee-Centric Culture: Horizon fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and appreciated. The organization emphasizes work-life balance and provides opportunities for professional growth and development. Comprehensive Benefits: Employees at Horizon enjoy a robust benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. These benefits contribute to the overall well-being and satisfaction of the staff. Mission-Driven Work: Working at Horizon means being part of a mission to provide hope and healing to individuals and families dealing with substance use and mental health disorders.

21. Servbank

Phoenix, Arizona

What makes Servbank a great place to work? At Servbank, we believe that banking is personal — and so is leadership. As a digitally forward, community-rooted financial institution, we're redefining what it means to be a great place to work by putting people at the center of everything we do. Our culture is built on the principle that People Matter, and that belief drives how we serve our customers, support our communities, and empower our team members. From our inclusive hiring practices to our robust employee engagement programs, Servbank fosters an environment where innovation thrives and every voice counts. What sets us apart? It's our people-first approach to both business and culture. We offer flexible work arrangements, meaningful volunteer opportunities through our "Season of SERVING" campaign, and a Volunteer Time Off program that encourages employees to give back to causes they care about.

20. Scotlynn

Fort Myers, Florida

What makes Scotlynn a great place to work? Scotlynn stands out as one of Florida's largest logistics companies and one of the most prominent businesses in Southwest Florida. As part of a global trucking and farming enterprise, the Florida-based logistics division operates a cutting-edge fleet of refrigerated tractor trailers and offers freight brokerage services to ensure the timely delivery of products across North America. At Scotlynn USA, success begins with our people. We prioritize hiring individuals with drive, resilience, collaboration, and a competitive spirit. Our management philosophy reflects this commitment: every meeting starts by focusing on our team before financials. This people-first culture fosters meaningful work, financial growth opportunities, exceptional mentorship and training, and a clear understanding of how every employee contributes to the company's vision and goals.

19. The Langham, Boston

Boston, Massachusetts

What makes The Langham, Boston a great place to work? The Langham, Boston is part of an international chain of luxury hotels. the Langham Hospitality Group. Our Company's vision statement is "Building Great Memories" and we do this by living our five Company Values: 1. Connect from the Heart (by taking initiative to connect emotionally with our guests as well as each other by offering genuine service) 2. Do the Right Thing (upholding our commitments, fair & equitable treatment for all, working with integrity and self-discipline) 3. One Team One Dream (teamwork, working hand in hand with one another) 4. Take Care of the World Around Us (Act sustainably and inclusively; give back to our local communities; we encourage our team members to participate in monthly company sponsored community service initiatives. 5. Better Every Day (we encourage continuous improvement for excellence and celebrating our success.) We want each colleague to know they are valued as a human being, as well as for the position they hold within our organization.

18. Community Housing Partners Corporation

Christiansburg, Virginia

What makes Community Housing Partners Corporation a great place to work? Our organization is proud to be a best place to work, built on a strong foundation of family atmosphere and compassion for both employees and residents. We foster a culture where team members feel valued, supported, and connected, with approachable leaders who put employees first. Our robust wellness program and comprehensive benefits package reflect our commitment to work-life balance and overall well-being, offering paid maternity and paternity leave, employee emergency assistance, and reimbursements for gym memberships and weight loss programs. With a focus on caring for our people as much as we care for those we serve, we create an environment where employees can thrive personally and professionally.

17. Centreville Bank

West Warwick, Rhode Island

What makes Centreville Bank a great place to work? At Centreville Bank, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We've built a culture rooted in respect, appreciation and belonging; making us one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island. Our commitment to employees goes beyond just their job. It's about fostering an environment where they can thrive, feel valued, make an impact and build a meaningful career with a strong work-life balance. We prioritize employee well-being, offering a "Healthiest Workplace" experience with an on-site wellness center, gym reimbursements, and stress-relieving activities like yoga and sound bath sessions during our employee wellness fair. Recognition is key to our culture. Whether it's through our internal People with Purpose initiative highlighting employee milestones, our Torch Run video series celebrating branch teams, or our Employee Appreciation Week, we ensure employees know their contributions matter.

16. Objective Partners

Chicago, Illinois

What makes Objective Partners a great place to work? Our culture is built on honesty, teamwork, discernment, hustle, and versatility, values that guide how we work and how we treat each other. We invest heavily in our people through transparent growth paths, professional development programs, and meaningful recognition initiatives like our Legends Club annual trip. Employees enjoy a high degree of autonomy, open communication with leadership, and a genuine sense of belonging. We're proud to foster an environment where employees feel challenged, supported, and connected. Where their contributions directly impact our success and our clients' success.

15. Schellman

Tampa, Florida

What makes Schellman a great place to work? At Schellman, great work/life effectiveness is paramount to our continued success. For more than 20 years, we've prided ourselves on supporting our team members through expanded health benefits, work-from-home technology allowances, opportunities for continuing education and certifications, and generous rewards like quarterly bonuses for all employees. Leadership at Schellman doesn't just champion balance- they also prioritize inclusiveness. Our leaders anchor their commitment to creating an environment that welcomes all in the very values that define our firm. We consistently seek to improve the work experience using different strategies like soliciting open feedback and providing resource groups for all team members. Such efforts demonstrate Schellman's priority of our active social responsibility to support the individuality of each employee. We believe these deliberate actions to support a more welcoming, comfortable, and inclusive workplace to our people will drive a better experience for all, professionally and personally.

14. Davie Kaplan, CPA, PC

What makes Davie Kaplan, CPA, PC a great place to work? Davie Kaplan, CPA PC is based in Rochester, NY and is a leading firm CPAs and business advisors with historical roots dating back to 1934. A practical approach to business and its operations give a unique edge in a complex business environment. The firm understands the importance of work life balance and in an industry that is known for extremely busy times, offering employees flexibility in their work day and other time off programs throughout the year allows employees to enjoy down time to refresh and relax. Employees' well-being is first priority, and the firm understands that taking an employee first approach to business results in a winning strategy. Happy employee lead to happy clients. Davie Kaplan also allows employees to refresh and unwind at work by providing on-site amenities such as a wellness room and employee lounge where employees can take a break, play games, watch tv, and connect with other employees during breaks or off hours.

13. Origami Risk

Chicago, Illinois

What makes Origami Risk a great place to work? Origami Risk is a highly renowned software as a service (SaaS) technology company that provides comprehensive risk, safety, and insurance solutions. Our primary goal is to assist our diverse range of clients, including corporate and public entities, brokers and risk consultants, insurers, third-party claims administrators (TPAs), risk pools, and more, in accomplishing their business objectives. With such diverse clientele, the team at Origami Risk plans to scale even more in the future. Founded in 2009 by industry veterans, over the past decade Origami Risk has received more than two dozen awards for service excellence, technology innovation, and workplace culture. We are proud to have been included in Deloitte's TechnologyFast 500™, which recognizes the 500 fastest-growing tech companies in North America, as well as being repeatedly recognized as one of the "Best Places to Work" by Inc. magazine and as one of the Best and Brightest® Companies To Work For in the Nation by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR).

12. Bell Bank

Fargo, North Dakota

What makes Bell Bank a great place to work? Bell Bank is one of the nation's largest family- and employee-owned banks, offering a full range of financial services including banking, mortgage, investments and insurance. Headquartered in Fargo, N.D., we continue to expand across the country, with regional market hubs in the Twin Cities and Phoenix and mortgage offices in multiple states. What's most important in our bank's success is the same thing that makes it such a great workplace: our core values focused on how we treat one another, serve our customers, and make our communities even better. From our CEO to our part-time tellers, the Bell team is focused every day on providing a family atmosphere and unequaled service, and giving back to the communities we serve. As Bell CEO Michael Solberg states, "Our reason for being is essentially to help people." Going the extra mile for those around us makes this a great company. It's an easy thing to say, but it shows in people's interactions with our team members and what our customers and community members say about us.

11. Autism Speaks

Washington, D.C.

What makes Autism Speaks a great place to work? At Autism Speaks, we're driven by a shared purpose: to create a world where all people with autism can achieve their full potential. Every day, our team unites around this vision, and it fuels everything we do. Working here means being part of a vibrant, compassionate community that celebrates every milestone on our journey toward a kinder, more inclusive world. Our team is inspired by the impact we have together and is supported through initiatives like bi-weekly all-staff calls, open discussions, and skill-building hours that foster collaboration and innovation across departments. We know that the most meaningful solutions come from working hand-in-hand, which is why we prioritize connection, transparency, and a culture of growth. Our commitment to each other is as strong as our commitment to the autism community. With monthly coaching sessions and a focus on management best practices, we invest in the professional and personal growth of every team member. Autism Speaks isn't just a workplace — it's a place where purpose, community, and passion come together to make a difference.

10. American Integrity Insurance Company

Tampa, Florida

What makes American Integrity Insurance Company a great place to work?

American Integrity believes its employees are the core of its business and provides support for the whole person: mental, physical, emotional, environmental, financial, spiritual and social. These elements create a workplace where employees feel supported, valued and motivated to contribute to the company's success. We hire people with a passion for their profession and it shows in our interactions with agents and customers. Integrity is in our name, and our employees live that core value in everything we do, which has built a culture of trust among our team members at all levels. Our team members genuinely likely working together. We respect and recognize our unique perspectives, and use those differentiators to drive success through better problem-solving and better solutions, which has driven better outcomes.

9. NRI North America (formerly Core BTS)

Indianapolis, Indiana

What makes NRI North America a great place to work? NRI (formerly Core BTS) is a full-service digital transformation consultancy committed to helping the world's leading organizations simplify complexity, accelerate innovation, and achieve meaningful business outcomes. Our mission is to empower clients with cutting-edge technology solutions, delivered through a culture grounded in innovation, inclusion, and continuous learning. At NRI, we're proud to be recognized as a great place to work—because we put people first. As a professional services organization, our people are our product, and we treat them that way. We're deeply committed to providing meaningful experiences, investing in both career and personal development, and ensuring every team member feels supported, valued, and empowered to grow. When people feel seen, supported, and inspired, they do their best work — and they want to stay. We've seen the proof in our employee engagement metrics, our internal promotion rates, and the number of referrals from current employees.

8. NIH Federal Credit Union

Rockville, Maryland

What makes NIH Federal Credit Union a great place to work?

At NIHFCU, we pride ourselves on being different from other financial institutions because of our genuine dedication to our members and our understanding of the unique needs of the healthcare community. Our motto, "Discover Banking with Heart," truly captures our mission to support the financial wellness of our healthcare and biomedical professionals. This motto can mean something special to each individual, and at its heart, it represents four unique promises that we're excited to offer: something new, different, and exciting awaits you at NIHFCU! We know that banking can often feel impersonal and technical, but we're here to change that. Our approach is all about being warm, human, and compassionate. As our President and CEO, Rick Wieczorek, says, "Discovering Banking with Heart" means treating everyone — both our members and employees — with empathy and kindness.

7. Seacoast Bank

Stuart, Florida

What makes Seacoast Bank a great place to work? From day one, associates feel a sense of community and belonging no matter where in FL they work. New associates attend an in-person orientation at the bank's HQ and receive a welcome from our CEO and members of the executive team. The day continues with learning about the history, mission, vision, values, culture, and vision. Associates join quarterly All Calls or in-person Town Hall meetings led by our CEO and executive team. These calls/events keep the organization connected as the bank continues to grow and provides associates with a direct line to the CEO as they are able to hear from him first and ask questions. At Seacoast we are proud to have a culture of collaboration and connection. Associates can also join ARGs which provide support to black associates, Hispanic associates, women, military, and the LGBT+ community.

6. Ron Marhofer Auto Family

Stow, Ohio

What makes Ron Marhofer Auto Family a great place to work? The Ron Marhofer Auto Family has proudly served Northeast Ohio since 1919 as a family-owned and operated automotive group built on trust, respect, and community. With multiple dealership locations representing leading brands, we've built a reputation for excellence by focusing on people first — our guests and, most importantly, our team members. What makes the Ron Marhofer Auto Family a "best" place to work is our culture. We live by our six core values: World-Class Experience, Commitment to Excellence, Teamwork, Trust & Respect for the Individual, Continuous Improvement, and Approachability & Process Orientation. These values are more than words on a wall — they guide how we lead, serve, and grow together every day. We believe that when employees are supported, recognized, and empowered, they deliver the kind of guest experience that sets us apart.

5. Langston Construction Co. of Piedmont, LLC

Piedmont, South Carolina

What makes Langston Construction Co. of Piedmont, LLC a great place to work? Langston Construction creates an extraordinary environment where professional growth meets personal fulfillment. It's a place where development, collaboration, inclusivity, and recognition come together to make employees feel like an essential part of a dynamic, supportive community. Langston puts a strong emphasis on continuous learning, offering custom-tailored programs, hands-on workshops, and certifications that empower employees to sharpen their skills and stay ahead of the curve. From leadership development to personal growth, every team member is supported in mapping out their own path to success. With clear paths for advancement, mentorship opportunities, and skill-building initiatives, Langston invests in its people, ensuring they have every chance to grow into leadership roles and thrive in their careers. Langston project teams work collaboratively to tackle challenges, share ideas, and drive innovation. An open-door policy fosters honest, transparent communication across all levels, creating trust and a sense of shared purpose.

4. TRM CPA

Jupiter, Florida

What makes TRM CPA a great place to work? At TRM CPA we see ourselves as a place to bring in "refugee" tax pros, aka great people who were burned out at their previous firm from too many hours, and we give them a place where they can stay in the profession but get their life back. We also are very mission-aligned, meaning we tie everything we do back to how we are helping small business owners all over the USA. As a result, we have a truly collaborative work environment that people say they are thrilled to be part of (and they stay, we had our first person voluntarily leave in 4 years just a couple months ago). We schedule 2-3 times yearly team trips to vacation-type destinations and our team absolutely loves those. Additionally, we allow team members to be fully remote which gives them a lot of their time back not needing to be stuck in traffic on a commute.

3. Kearney & Company

Alexandria, Virginia

What makes Kearney & Company a great place to work? Kearney's vibrant culture is unmatched. It is a cornerstone of our organizational foundation and a celebration as to why Kearney is a "Best Place to Work." We celebrate unique relationships with each team member. Our team members are more than a number. They are individuals with varied interests, talents, and abilities who contribute to our firm's success. Each team member is empowered to chart his/her own career success by using the Kearney Career Path Guide, the Career Continuum, and our robust learning and development program as tools to pursue their professional aspirations. We celebrate our dynamic leadership who bring life to the "open door" policy. Our senior leadership is accessible and approachable. Team members are routinely encouraged to share suggestions through the Big Idea Program and open communication. Our leadership has implemented several employee driven ideas, such as the Kearney Chronicles, a celebration of the firm's history. Dynamic leadership is part of our culture, and our leaders routinely listen, coach, and take care of our team members.

2. Tokio Marine North America Services

Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania

What makes Tokio Marine North America Services a great place to work? TMNA Services, LLC was established in 2012 as the shared services company to Tokio Marine North America, Inc. (TMNA). With headquarters located in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, TMNAS provides value-added services to all TMNA Group Companies including Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY), First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH), Tokio Marine America (TMA) and its insurance companies. Our range of services include Legal, Internal Audit, Actuarial, IT, Facilities, Finance & Accounting, Human Resources, and Corporate Communications which deliver efficiencies and cost savings through the streamlining of processes, while building synergies across our business units. At TMNAS, customer service is our focus — the key to our success is the voice of our customers. We are passionate about the services we provide, and work to support our business units with the resources they need to accomplish their objectives. We continuously work to improve the quality of services we provide, based on results from our Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Our mission at TMNAS is to strive to provide superior professional services which support the business and governance needs of our valued customers.

1. Brown Plus

Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

What makes Brown Plus a great place to work? It all comes down to culture! At Brown Plus, we are committed to creating an environment where people feel heard, valued, supported, and empowered. Our mission — to help people achieve extraordinary outcomes — and our core values — compassionate honesty, unified team, ownership and responsibility, creative thinking, and life balance — guide every decision we make and shape how we support our team. Listening is a cornerstone of our culture, and feedback drives real change. Thanks to our team's input, we expanded fully paid parental leave to three weeks, enhanced short-term disability coverage (70% of pay for up to 13 weeks), introduced a 36-hour summer workweek, and close our offices for the Fourth of July week with full pay. These changes reflect our commitment to helping our team balance professional and personal lives. Flexibility is another key. Our "Brown Plus Workplace by Design" policy empowers employees to work remotely — whether one day a week or fully remote, role dependent — paired with flex time to better fit work around their lives.

Jimmy Nesbitt

Reporter, Employee Benefits News

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