People And Work Business Of The Year

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People and Work Business of the Year

Date

July 1, 2025

The read

We are absolutely delighted that Square One has been named “People and Work Business of the Year” at the prestigious North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

The honour was the high point of a fantastic evening, which provided a showcase for regional business talent, authenticity and a celebration of everything that’s great about our business community.

The national category award itself was, in-part, recognition of Square One’s outstanding commitment to creating a truly inclusive, values-led workplace.

It celebrates businesses that show determination to recruiting, training, and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce, something Square One has embedded at the heart of its culture.

The firm’s award-winning approach is built on equity, wellbeing and inclusion, empowering people across the business to drive growth and performance.

A Living Wage employer and certified B Corp, Square One Law aligns with the North of Tyne Good Work Pledge, championing fair pay, flexibility, and opportunity for all.

The Square One Law team stood with the presenter of the People & Work Business of the Year award, stood on a balcony in front of the Tyne Bridge at Dusk.

The Square One Law team and the presenter of the award celebrating together.

Jean Pierre (JP) Van Zyl, Partner and Head of our Employment team, who led and worked as part of the team that implemented the people strategy, said:

“It’s a real thrill to win this award, which I feel recognises how everyone at the firm not only buys into, but also strives to maintain a progressive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace.

“Through smart recruitment, a flexible working model and supporting people to achieve, we have attracted and retained a diverse, super-talented and ambitious team, and this award is for everyone.”

Recognising the important contribution marginalised groups can bring to business, Square One champions social mobility, actively supports neurodiversity and disability inclusion.

“We are all unique – faith, gender identity and background all shape who we are,” added JP.

“But it’s in our differences, how we approach problems and how we see the world, that we find a fresh positive perspective. Fostering an inclusive culture is not only the right thing to do; it also drives measurable business success, improving retention, engagement and profitability.”

Square One Law is proud to champion equity, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I) – collaborating with clients, communities, and partners to lead positive change.