Nationwide Group
Nationwide Group has been selected as an Employer of Choice in The Australian Business Awards 2021. The Australian Business Award for Employer of Choice [EOC] recognises organisations that develop workplaces that maximise the full potential of their workforce through established policies and practices which demonstrate effective employee recruitment, engagement and retention.
Launched in the mid-1980s, Nationwide has emerged as Australia’s largest provider of roadside assistance and transport solutions.
For over 30 years Nationwide has dedicated itself to the provision of vital services that help keep Australians on the move. With a team of over 600 representatives across five states, Nationwide are perpetually searching for ways to manifest company values throughout the business. It is through a total embrace of these values that Nationwide have maintained transparency and ethical working practices. This has culminated in a strong workforce and service engagement from other industry leaders such as Victoria Police, RACV, IAG and more.
The towing and transport industry can be extremely hazardous, laced with potential risks across unpredictable environments. As such, it is crucial to maintain structure and dependency amidst the business, with all teams working to maintain shared values.
Nationwide have spent decades ensuring that within such uncontrolled environments the business is built on a strong foundation for safety, committed to supporting and empowering its people. The company’s mission, vision and values are demonstrated by all levels of the business, from senior management to frontline representatives. They were developed by staff through consultation, and aligned the business’ commitment to its people and purpose.
The business also has a strong focus on collaboration, teamwork and continuous improvement, with cross-functional working groups and interdepartmental project teams.
A self-directed group of representatives have come together to form the Nationwide Culture Club. The club focuses on enhancing company culture by coordinating events and initiatives based on feedback from the broader organisation. Notably, the Culture Club has reviewed the business’ parental leave policies, researching industry standards and best practice approaches to align with needs of the Nationwide workforce.
Moreover, Nationwide’s focus on people has led to many initiatives that support employee development. During COVID-19, new programs ensure mental health ‘check-ins’ with staff, while all teams have established regular catch-ups to maintain casual social interaction.
Nationwide has begun to focus increasingly on workforce retention and turnover, improving recruitment processes while establishing a suite of tests to identify candidates who fit the position and embrace an energetic culture.
Nationwide proudly provide tailored training and development to all representatives, spearheaded by the learning & development team, who include professional trainers, communications and design experts, as well as subject experts.
Nationwide similarly believes in developing leadership capability, having engaged an executive coach to provide advice, coaching and workshop facilitation to its leadership team.
Nationwide’s performance review and development planning model allows managers and their staff to set and monitor clearly defined and achievable performance objectives according to the business’ values and individual goals. Managers discuss employee’s development to mutually plan and facilitate professional growth.
By recognising talent, maintaining company values and nurturing nascent leadership qualities, Nationwide achieve enrichment across the social strata of the business. Similarly, engaging innovative ways to maintain contemporary and ethical working practices, Nationwide ensure that hard work is both identified and celebrated.