Vorboss Recognised by Sunday Times as One of the Best Places to Work in the UK
January 29, 2025
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5
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Highlights
Vorboss was named one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work in the UK and Best Places to Work for Women. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace culture in the telecoms industry, with initiatives including the Vorboss Academy and our Female First campaign.
Exciting news! Vorboss has been recognised as one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work in the UK and Best Places to Work for Women. We couldn't be happier to be recognised for our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace culture within the telecoms industry. Being listed among the 40 best employers in Britain is a real milestone for us.
As the UK's only dedicated enterprise fibre network, our emphasis on inclusion, equity, and diversity has positioned us as a leader in driving positive change within the tech space. This wouldn't have been possible without our people-centric approach that runs through all areas of the business, and we are proud to be recognised by the prestigious Sunday Times Best Places to Work awards.
Jaye O'Callaghan, our Chief People Officer, says, 'We have worked tirelessly to make Vorboss a destination for some of the most ambitious, hard-working and friendly people. We're proud to be the flag bearer for the whole telecommunications industry and are thrilled that our team has been acknowledged in this way.'
Let's dive deeper into how Vorboss embraces diversity, promotes accessibility, invests in employee development, and supports women in the workplace. We're here to reshape the telecoms industry, and this recognition from the Sunday Times fuels our passion even more.
Putting people first
The Sunday Times Best Places to Work awards are all about the employees, so the results are solely based on a survey sent out to our incredible team. With topics ranging from reward and recognition to empowerment and wellbeing, the survey covers it all and is considered a trusted barometer of employee-centric businesses across industries.
We have built a workplace that revolves around our people, with a focus on diversity, accessibility, and employee development. Supporting women in the workplace is also a top priority for us.
Our goal? To provide the absolute best job experience for our employees while prioritising their individual needs.
Embracing diversity and accessibility
In the telecoms industry, diversity and accessibility have long been crucial challenges; that's why we have adopted a proactive approach. Our CEO and founder Tim Creswick comments, 'We're only going to change the face of the industry if we continue to attract a diversity of thought and talents in the coming decades.'
We firmly believe that people and culture are the bedrock of a thriving business. From day one, we've implemented a wide range of initiatives to support employees from various backgrounds and cultivate a genuinely diverse, engaged, and motivated workforce.
A shining example of this commitment is our in-house training academy. The Vorboss Academy is designed to be inclusive, requiring no prior experience and serving as a pathway to a telecoms career for anyone who aspires to it. We're proud to offer this opportunity to individuals from various backgrounds, ensuring that a career in telecoms is accessible to all.
Nurturing growth and development
We strongly emphasise continuous employee development. We start by going the extra mile to empower our team with additional educational resources. If they have a specific request for further education, professional development, mentorship, or professional certifications, we're here to make it happen. Our office library is also stocked with a selection of self-development books, providing a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Investing in our team's growth is essential for their success and satisfaction. That's why we've introduced a unique opportunity for all our staff: an additional 5% of their salary dedicated to life-enhancing training. We want our employees to be free to choose the training opportunities that resonate with them, whether it's leadership coaching or swimming lessons, to support their personal and professional enrichment.
Empowering women in the workplace
We take great pride in being recognised as a workplace that provides unwavering support for women. We work diligently to create an inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued. Our commitment to gender equality is reflected in our operations and recruitment practices.
We've taken significant strides in diversifying our workforce by actively recruiting female Installation Technicians, Warehouse Operatives, and Mobile Field Support members. This intentional focus on gender diversity has fostered a diverse and vibrant workplace. Not only does this contribute to better employee retention, but it also attracts new talents who are inspired by our inclusive culture. In fact, within the telecoms industry, our Installation Team boasts an impressive 35% representation of women, a unique achievement.
We're determined to break barriers and set new standards in the telecoms sector and beyond. Our vision is to see more women occupying critical roles across our business, paving the way for a more equal and gender-balanced workforce. By championing gender diversity, we strive to create a workplace that is representative of the world we live in.
To ensure inclusivity, we've implemented specific measures that address the unique needs of women in the workplace. We provide welfare vans that offer privacy and relief to our Installation Technicians. Specially sourced tools and uniforms are available to ensure the perfect fit for women. Additionally, we recognise the importance of period days, flexible work arrangements, and family-friendly policies.
Leading the way for positive change
Our initiatives should become the industry standard, fostering high-performance teams, inclusive workplace cultures, and sustainable business practices.
As Tim Creswick puts it, 'It's fantastic to be recognised as one of the UK's best companies to work for, not just in telecoms, but across all sectors. We hope this signals a positive change in how telecoms companies are regarded in the wider UK market. We're only going to change the face of the industry if we continue to attract a diversity of thought and talents in the coming decades, and this marks an important milestone in recognising the immense effort invested by our team to date.'
Thanks to the Sunday Times for naming us as one of the best places to work in the UK and highlighting the inclusive workplace culture we're so proud of.
We're hiring! Visit the vacancies section of our website to check out our live roles.
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Serving up speed: How 10Gbps connectivity changed everything for Patty & Bun
Patty & Bun was established in 2012 and is renowned for serving high-quality gourmet burgers. Their mouthwatering menu changes monthly, with new specials added to keep flavours fresh and customers returning.
With 9 locations across London, the business has built a strong reputation for its delicious food and superb customer experience. While the company has consistently grown year on year, its connectivity slowly began to fall short across several sites, including its HQ on Cavendish Street, London.
Why reliable internet is as crucial as the perfect location
When success relies on serving thousands of customers daily, operational efficiency is critical to success, and there is little room for downtime.
To maintain smooth operations, Patty & Bun relies on two key factors: Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) systems, which are fundamental to processing orders and managing billing, and fast, stable internet connectivity, which ensures the EPOS systems can keep up with processing information at speed.
The cost of unreliable internet
Providing exceptional service, day after day, is challenging enough. But adding some connectivity chaos to the mix quickly became a recipe for disaster.
The team experienced frequent outages and inconsistent speeds, which meant their EPOS systems would either be frustratingly slow or completely out of action for minutes, hours or sometimes even days. All amplified by the fact they had different internet service providers across multiple locations, making troubleshooting each providers individual line a nightmare for the team.
This meant order processing and restaurant operations took a hit, negatively impacting their customers, staff, and ultimately revenue.
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From frustration to fast – a seamless switchover
Despite the disruption, the team feared that changing internet service provider would result in further disruption – something they simply could not afford to happen.
After Vorboss was recommended through an industry partner, they decided it was worth exploring. They were quickly assured of a seamless transition with little to no disruption to day-to-day operations, meaning the switch-over wouldn’t hinder their ambitious revenue targets, and would ultimately fix all their connectivity problems.
Soon after, our install team connected them with a Direct Internet line whilst they were still in contract with various ISPs across different locations, at no extra cost (meaning no double billing). So, not only were they able to consolidate their connectivity, but there was also zero switchover downtime, disruption or additional cost.
The 10Gbps upgrade that changed everything
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Vorboss provided one to one assistance throughout the process and were on hand 24/7 for any questions or additional support.
Now using a Vorboss 10Gbps Direct Internet connection (AKA a leased line), Patty & Bun never have to share their connection. This guarantees 10Gbps upload and download speed at all times, even during peak hours, which gives them the reliability and speed they’d craved for years.
Constantly troubleshooting slow EPOS systems, and inconsistent customer WiFi is now a thing of the past. The ability to focus on what’s really important - food, service, and experience - means they can continue to thrive in a highly competitive environment.
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Moving office is a big deal for any business. That’s why knowing what you need to consider is vital in ensuring it goes smoothly and successfully.
So, whether you're upsizing, relocating to a more convenient spot, or upgrading to a more modern environment to encourage people back to the office, it's a moment that requires careful planning.
So, we’ve put together this guide to help you stay on top of everything – from planning and budgeting to keeping your team connected and productive from day one.
Why read this guide?
Even if you've planned an office move before, the London commercial property market is ever evolving. For instance, the demand for flexible workspaces has surged, with a 14% year-over-year increase in inquiries for flexible office spaces in the first half of 2024. Understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions that align with your business objectives.
Vorboss has been involved in hundreds of office moves, helping businesses sidestep connectivity delays and operational headaches. We know what works, and we’re here to help you make informed decisions for a stress-free move.
London's office relocation landscape
London’s office market has proven to be incredibly resilient. In 2024, the Central London office leasing market recorded a total take-up of 9.68 million sq ft – a 1% increase from the previous year. A key driver? Businesses seeking high-quality, flexible spaces that fit their evolving working models.
The demand for flexible workspaces is particularly strong, with occupancy rates climbing to 83% on average in early 2024 – and as high as 88% in key areas like Southwark and the City. If you’re considering a flexible lease, getting ahead of the curve is essential.
Things to consider when moving office
Planning an office move isn’t just a logistical challenge, it’s a strategic initiative that can significantly impact your business. Here are some of the reasons why planning an office move with real care is essential.
Ensuring a smooth process
A well-planned move means fewer headaches, from packing up years of accumulated ‘stuff’, to setting up your new space. Breaking it into clear stages with assigned responsibilities ensures everything runs on time and on budget.
Avoiding unecessary costs
Office relocations can get expensive. A detailed budget from the outset that includes all anticipated expenses - moving services, IT setup, rent, service charges, utilities and office redesign - reduces the risk of overspending.
Meeting lease obligations & avoiding legal issues
Moving out isn’t just about handing back the keys - you must meet your landlord’s requirements, including cleaning, repairs, and restoring the space. Be mindful of hidden costs such as dilapidation clauses, which may require restoring the space to its original condition upon lease termination. Factor this in early to avoid surprises.
Negotiating lease flexibility
In an evolving market, flexible lease terms can provide the agility to adapt to changing business needs. Consider options that allow for scalability or early termination without significant penalties.
Minimising downtime
Business continuity is critical, and even a day of disruption can impact your bottom line. A well-thought-out plan ensures your operations continue with minimal interruptions. For example, respecifying and pre-installing IT and connectivity in your new office allows your team to hit the ground running on day one.
Collaborating effectively with stakeholders
Moving office involves input from multiple stakeholders; colleagues, service providers, and landlords. Open communication and regular updates ensure everyone is on the same page, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or last-minute surprises.
Creating a positive experience for your team
A well-planned office move shows your commitment to employee comfort and productivity.
Proper planning for your office relocation is about more than logistics; it’s about safeguarding your operations and setting the stage for growth. By taking a strategic approach, you can turn the challenge of moving into an opportunity to enhance your business.
How to prepare for moving office
Successful moves hinge on clear communication, precise planning, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Here’s how to prepare for an office move with ease:
Set your timeline
When you’re planning an office move, determine your moving date and work backwards from there to create a detailed schedule of tasks. Ensure you allow sufficient time for preparation, including securing service providers, notifying stakeholders, and completing physical packing.
Assess your space requirements
Evaluate your current and future needs, considering team size, growth projections, and the nature of your operations.
Put together a ‘moving team’
Assign specific responsibilities to a dedicated team of your own people or hire a professional relocation company. Allocating clear roles ensures accountability and streamlines decision-making.
Audit your current space
Conduct a thorough assessment of your existing office. Sort through equipment, furniture, and files – decide what to move, sell of recycle.
Plan your new layout
Work with a space designer or team member to develop the floor plan for the new office. Think about workflow optimisation, employee comfort, and what you might need in the future to deal with expansion. Oh! And don’t forget essential areas like meeting rooms, breakout spaces, and places to accommodate IT infrastructure.
Prioritise IT & connectivity
This is where we see the biggest mistakes! Vorboss has helped numerous companies recover from underestimating connectivity lead times. Start early to ensure your new office has the right internet speed, bandwidth, and security from day one. But, if you have left it a bit late, we do have a Rapid Install service, which you can find here.
Give everyone warning
Tell all your clients, suppliers, and service providers that you are moving office ahead of time. Provide them with clear timelines and your new address to avoid interruptions. Update your website and social media with the new address.
Schedule utilities and services
Confirm the installation of all the key utilities such as electricity, water, and internet well before moving day. Choose suppliers that you can trust, and understand your office move requirements – there's often more choice than you think.
A timeline of everything you need to think about when moving office
Knowing how to timeline an office move can be daunting, but by anticipating potential challenges and allowing room for unexpected setbacks, you’ll ensure a smoother transition.
To help with this, we’ve blocked out a typical move timeline:
6-12 months before the move
Define your needs
Identify the reasons for the move and create a list of must-haves for the new space. Think about size, future growth, location, and required facilities to ensure the new office will meet your business needs.
Secure your new location
The demand for flexible office space in London has increased, with occupancy reaching 83% on average. If you’re considering a flexible lease, start early to secure the best options.
Establish a budget
Develop a comprehensive budget for the office relocation. Include contingency funds to cover unexpected expenses.
3-6 months before the move
Get your suppliers sorted
Surround yourself with pros. Hire professional movers, fit-out companies (if needed), and IT specialists to ensure your relocation goes smoothly. Book them in early to avoid last-minute scrambling.
Plan your connectivity
Work closely with a good business internet provider to ensure seamless service. This step is critical for maintaining business continuity and productivity from day one.
Notify your team
Keep everyone in your company informed about the move and provide them with regular updates. Share a timeline and what to expect during the transition.
1-3 months before the move
Begin packing
If doing it yourself, organise your packing process systematically. Label boxes clearly with their contents and their destination within the new space.
Update addresses
Notify your clients, suppliers, and service providers of your change of address. Prepare to update your business listings, website, and marketing materials.
Test IT systems
Arrange for your IT and connectivity systems to be tested rigorously before moving across. This way, you can be sure that critical services such as the internet and phones are operational before your team arrives. Any good connectivity supplier should offer to connect your office ahead of your move-in date to ensure a smooth transition, wavering the cost of any cross-over to avoid being double-charged.
Moving day
Oversee the process
Assign a trusted team member (even if that is yourself) to supervise the move. Choose someone who can handle unexpected issues and ensure that everything arrives at, is installed into, and functions properly in the new location as planned.
Prioritise essential systems
Prioritise real-world troubleshooting of IT infrastructure, connectivity, and other essential services on the day. This guarantees that your team will be able to resume work efficiently, no matter what.
Post-move
Do a walkthrough
However thoroughly you planned your office move, once you are in you need to inspect the new space carefully to ensure everything is in order. Check for damage, missing items, and other issues that need immediate attention.
Celebrate with your team
Planning an office move and continuing to function as a business while the relocation is underway, are great achievements. So, be sure to acknowledge the hard work all round that’s gone into the move and celebrate - you’ve earned it!
By following this timeline, you’ll have the basis for your own step-by-step approach to managing and planning your office move efficiently. Working through these stages will enable you to reduce stress (both for yourself and your colleagues) and set the business up for a flying start in its new home.
What to look for in a business internet supplier when moving office
Moving office is stressful enough without getting stuck in a bad internet contract. Unfortunately, we speak to too many businesses who only realise the fine print has tripped them up when it’s too late. Before you sign anything, here are five things to check:
Mid-contract price increases
Some providers sneak in clauses that let them hike your prices during your contract. That means you could sign up at one price and end up paying much more down the line. If your business needs cost certainty (who’s doesn’t?), ensure you’re locked into a fair price for the whole term.
Auto-renewals
Not all contracts end when you expect them to. Some providers auto-renew you into another long-term deal without much warning, making it hard to leave when you need to. Check the small print and set a reminder well before your contract is up.
Service guarantees vs. empty promises
Your provider might say you’ll get ‘up to’ a certain speed, but is that guaranteed or just a target? If a stable connection is critical for your business, look for providers that commit to actual performance, not just marketing buzzwords. If you’re buying a broadband grade service, your speeds are almost definitely not guaranteed so make sure your connection is dedicated to your business, find out more about that here.
Compensation without the hassle
If your internet goes down, will your provider compensate you automatically, or will you have to fight for it? Some suppliers make you jump through hoops to claim what you’re owed, knowing most businesses won’t have the time. A good provider makes things right without the headache.
Do they own their network?
Moving office comes with enough deadlines - your internet install shouldn’t be another thing keeping you up at night. Check if your provider owns and controls its own network or if they’re relying on third-party contractors for installation. If they don’t have full control, delays can stack up, leaving you without internet when you need it most.
Bottom line? Don’t just sign what’s put in front of you. Ask questions, push for clarity, and make sure your internet service works for your business - not the other way around.
2025 Commercial real estate trends to think about
An increased demand for sustainable, premium offices
Market consolidations
Hybrid working
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How Vorboss can make switching internet as easy as possible when moving office
Moving office gives you the ideal opportunity to reconsider your connectivity needs - especially if part of your move is to support company expansion. While switching internet service provider (ISP) during an office relocation might seem like a daunting task, we have a whole host of solutions to help support your move – even if you’re on a tight deadline:
Expert support every step of the way
Vorboss provides dedicated support throughout the relocation process, from initial planning and infrastructure assessment to post-move optimisation. Your dedicated, London-based account manager will help you address any challenges and ensure your internet service aligns perfectly with your business requirements.
The Rapid Install advantage
Vorboss’s Rapid Install service is a game-changer if you’re looking to minimise downtime as you prepare for an office move. We designed this service to provide high-speed internet installation on a tight timeline, so you can be certain your new office will be fully operational from the moment your team walks through the door. Unlike others, we’ll work to your timeline.
Dedicated fibre connectivity
So, you’ll never have to worry about connectivity again. Unlike broadband, which is split among multiple users, Vorboss provides each business with its own fibre line. We built the network from the ground up with our own teams, which means we can ensure the quality and reliability of your connectivity.
Switching internet services doesn’t have to be a headache. Get access to tailored connectivity solutions, expert support, and industry-leading reliability. Let’s chat!
