Few people can say their employer buys them an all-expense-paid vacation. But that’s typical at Oceanstate Financial Services, one of New England’s oldest and largest privately owned financial-services firms.
The company, which has offices in East Providence and Boston, acquired a condo near Disney World in Orlando for its employees to use at no cost. All of the company’s financial advisers are also eligible for annual reward trips. This year, all-expense-paid vacations to Las Vegas and a six-night cruise in the Aegean Sea are up for grabs.
Aside from the vacation perks, the services firm is also a great place to work because all employees are treated with equal respect, said Ann Swartz, chief operating officer. Managers get to know everyone on a personal level and create real bonds with every associate.
“There is an environment of teamwork in which all associates support each other in the completion of tasks big and small,” Swartz said.
Employees who are new to the financial-services company learn the business through development courses on various topics and mentorships.
To encourage a spirit of teamwork in the company, the support staff splits a $15,000 bonus pool when the company meets its monthly and quarterly sales goals.
Oceanstate also encourages social gatherings. Through its Personal Enrichment Program, employees gather at sporting events, have pizza parties or attend family picnics together.
Oceanstate also has its own charity that supports children in need in New England, and employees are given the opportunity to help raise money, participate in and plan events. •
