Background 

What happens when a company decides happiness should be more than a survey score? For XPS Pensions Group it meant turning feedback into a movement that put belonging, wellbeing and joy at the heart of everyday work.

FTSE-250 pension consulting and administration firm XPS already had an award-winning culture but its 2023 Employee Engagement Survey highlighted three key areas that could still improve: belonging, health and wellbeing, and happiness at work. While overall engagement was positive, employees cited disconnection caused by remote work, uncertainty around wellbeing resources and a need for more opportunities to connect and celebrate success.

XPS set out to turn this feedback into action, making meaningful cultural improvements that would deepen connection, enhance wellbeing and ensure that happiness became a lived part of its culture.

Approach 

In 2023, the Office Head role was revitalised to strengthen community spirit through regular communications and social events. Across 2024–25 offices were empowered to host local initiatives such as Pride celebrations, culture days and mental health activities. These events fostered inclusivity, visibility and shared purpose across locations.

Recognising that employees were unsure how to access support for wellbeing, XPS ran a communication campaign clarifying confidential help channels and resources. New partnerships included Me and My Menopause, providing personalised guidance to employees, while a Movember campaign raised £5,000 while promoting men’s mental health. The XPS Wellness Hour introduced quarterly wellbeing themes such as resilience and stress management, supported by webinars, resources and expert-led sessions.

“By putting belonging, wellbeing and happiness first XPS proved that when people thrive business follows”

The company doubled paid parental leave and launched coaching programmes to support employees before and after time away. Flexible working stories were shared internally to normalise different approaches to work-life balance. To celebrate success XPS hosted annual summer parties, the Values in Practice Awards, and introduced Virgin Experience Day vouchers for every colleague when the company entered the FTSE 250 in 2024.

Outcome

Employee satisfaction scores were already in the 60s but focusing on these areas has made a significant difference. Happiness jumped from 62% to 79%, belonging is up from 62% to 76% and 89% rate XPS as a good place to work (up from 78%). Turnover dropped to 11.7% (down 3.3 points year-on-year) and Glassdoor ratings improved across all measures, with overall satisfaction rising to 4.25 and a CEO approval rating of 99.5%.

XPS has created a culture defined by belonging, wellbeing and happiness and shown that, when people feel supported and connected, performance and loyalty follow.

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