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38 B E S T P L A C E S TO W O R K 2 0 2 1 LARGE EMPLOYER CATEGORY (250 OR MORE U.S. EMPLOYEES) Dechra Coffee connections and group leadership studies A FUN, upbeat company to work for. That's what employees would say about Dechra, an interna- tional specialist veterinary pharmaceu- ticals and related products business. Employees en- joy the flexibility Dechra provides so they can strike the right work-life balance. Then there's the sense of em- powerment the company nurtures as it encourages employees to get involved outside of their core re- sponsibilities, through opportunities such as the Community Giving Com- mittee, community volunteering and interim stretch assignments. Dechra prides itself on its high-quali- ty products, a value that's deeply rooted in the culture. That's why all employ- ees are encouraged to communicate openly, share ideas and demonstrate the courage to leap into the unknown. Dechra embraces its values at every level of the business, as articulated through its mantra — "Dedication, Enjoyment, Cour- age, Honesty, Re- lationships and Ambition." The mantra is designed to reflect the best aspects of behavior and competence. Open communi- cation is key. It's fostered by regular "Coffee Connec- tions" that invite employees to have informal discussions with a member of the board. Frequent voluntary employee gatherings are held with senior leaders to celebrate mile- stones or just to gather and have fun. That can be a natural segue to leadership training, mentoring, job shadowing, cross training and attendance at leadership workshops or other formal leadership education. The company even holds regu- lar "Group Leadership Book Studies." Dechra shows its appreciation through formal and informal programs that include random recognition and engagement such as gift baskets de- livered in person to employees' homes, welcome spring cards with flower seeds and Halloween costume contests. Employee appreciation gatherings include luncheons and dinners, events, and company apparel or other items given for milestones such as work an- niversaries. Free coffee, tea, fruit and snacks available every day in the com- munal kitchen. Every employee even gets a free parking garage pass. Diversity and inclusion initiatives include recruitment of veterans through Boots2Roots as well as training as needed for individual development or upon request for teams. Multiple benefit plans include Flex- ible Spending Accounts, pet insurance, voluntary supplemental life for em- ployee, spouse and children. Benefits also include legal plans. There's a 100% company paid identity-theft benefit, a life insurance policy at 1.5 times salary and virtual weekly wellness workshops for physical and mental wellbeing. New in 2021 is a "Flu and Brew Event" involving a flu shot clinic held at a local Maine brewery. Dechra One Monument Square Portland, ME 04101 dechra.com Top local executive: Dr. Anthony Lucas, Group Product Development Director Number of Maine employees: 57 # 1 Machias Savings Bank Financial wellness and monthly 'mini' coaching M achias Savings Bank is commit- ted to providing an environ- ment where all employees can experience a healthy work-life balance. Relationship building is its foundation. Leadership listens to employees and implements their ideas — embrac- ing change and the success it ul- timately brings. The culture is guided by an ex- ecutive manage- ment team that en- courages a fun and positive work envi- ronment. It places a strong focus on expanding communication channels that collect genuine feedback. Whether it's about holding a family gathering with the top brass or a manager holding a monthly fireside chat, the company is constantly asking, "What can we do better?" Multiple programs foster employee advancement and well-being. They in- clude job shadowing, mentoring and encouraging staff to explore other departments. The company's Lead- ership Institute instills qualities in aspiring leaders across the bank. A r o b u s t r e - wards and recog- nition program encourages anyone at the organization to speak up when they see or hear other employees being exceptional. A family-first philosophy creates the recipe for a perfect work-life balance. Employees receive 16 hours of family flex time, while the informal and fun atmosphere helps create a healthy work environment. When the bank has a good year, em- ployees receive up to a 12% annual bonus. Free expert financial wellness tools, advice and coaching are offered by certified financial coaches to ensure employees have financial freedom and peace of mind. Every manager is supplied with branded "MSB Coins," so when a man- ager "catches" the employee exhibiting the bank's culture standards, the em- ployee is rewarded on the spot. Along with three medical plans, the company makes monthly contributions to employees' Health Savings Accounts for those who have high-deductible plans. Despite increasing premium costs, the company has absorbed all increases over the last six years. It also offers critical care, accident and hospital indemnity insurance. Each month, the president of the bank recognizes employees who have provided a refreshingly different customer service experience. Recipients receive a small trophy and a $500 bonus. Employee Ap- preciation Week is held each September, with games, prizes, giveaways and gifts. Managers can receive executive and life coaching, while all employees enjoy monthly mini coaching sessions with a personal coach. Other perks include chair massages, door decorating contests and games, and wintertime Bingo. Inside and outside activities rewarded with prizes. Machias Savings Bank P.O. Box 318 Machias, ME 04654 machiassavings.bank Top local executive: Lawrence L. Barker, President & CEO Number of Maine employees: 293 # 2 Community volunteer activity at Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland.