With a double-digit state jobless rate, employment stability has become key to peace of mind for many workers. And that stability, according to employees, is what makes The Providence Mutual Fire Insurance Co. one of the best places to work in the Ocean State.
“It’s a sound company, and that really means a lot,” said claims examiner Henrietta Silva, a four-year employee who hopes to stay with Providence Mutual until she retires. “They do everything in their power to ensure our jobs will still be here tomorrow. It’s a great assurance to know you’re at a company that’s really striving to succeed.”
Tom Burkart, vice president of claims, said the company has only grown during his tenure. “And because the company takes care of employees, the turnover has been minimal,” he said. The Providence Mutual Fire Insurance Company is a property and casualty insurance company with 70 employees, 300 independent agents and over 70,000 policies. Founded in 1800, it is the fourth-oldest mutual insurance company in the nation. The Warwick-based company serves all of New England, as well as New York and New Jersey.
Job stability is a plus for management as well, according to Burkart. “In my department, we have mostly very experienced people who know how to get the job done,” he said. “And that allows us to have a somewhat relaxed atmosphere. And I think that holds true for the rest of the organization.”
The company encourages office activities that promote camaraderie and team spirit. There are cook-offs between various departments, and hot dogs and popcorn on Opening Day at Fenway Park. “They make sure the office is a good working environment,” Silva said. “We have social events, cookouts and ice cream days in the summer, and a Christmas-season luncheon.”
Employees say the company’s relatively small size also reduces the usual problems found at most workplaces. “I came here from a much larger company, and I’ve found we get things done at a much faster pace,” Burkart said. “Because we’re a small company, we really work close with one another. This isn’t the sort of place where you have to go through layers of management.”
“There are no obstacles here that might prevent a person from doing their job to the best of their ability,” Silva added.
Workers are also happy with the competitive benefits package. The company offers a health plan, and dental and disability plans as well. There is a 401(k) program, with matching contributions from the company.
“They’re always willing to listen to whatever issues employees might have,” Silva said. “They try to ease the burdens that all workers face. It’s just a great place to come to every day.” •
