Earlier this year, Seven Consultancy won a place on The Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work 2026, within the small business category. This in an annual award that is presented to organisations solely on the basis of an employee survey, covering areas from reward and recognition to wellbeing and job satisfaction.  

Emma Harvey, CEO and Founder of Seven Consultancy, holds workplace wellbeing as one of the non-negotiables within the business. We spoke to her about the importance of workplace wellbeing, and exactly what being one of the best small places to work means to her.  

Why do you think Seven won the award? 

“We have never been a team that have thought much about awards, but one of my main priorities has always been creating an environment that ensures my team look forward to work every single day. 

“Achieving that comes from the very simple fact that we are a team of people who enjoy being together. The positive impact we have on each other allows us to drive creativity and innovation into our job, and I feel that’s reflected in the quality of service we provide our clients.  

“I believe strongly in the law of association and the fact your peers dictate your habits and ultimately shape your future. This is why we actively hire people based on attitude – looking for smart, caring, and hardworking colleagues who will work with us to shape Seven’s future and sustain the work culture we have built.” 

When you started Seven what did you want to do differently to other agencies?  

“Before I founded Seven, I found many agencies took a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, but that just doesn’t work. 

“So, when Seven started, I wanted to ensure we were offering our clients what they really needed to drive organisational success. To do so, we hired a senior-weighted team who create shared objectives with clients to drive impact effectively. This has been key to Seven’s culture and has led to a much more fulfilling way of working – often allowing us to dive deeper into clients’ needs – which in turn results in better outcomes and lasting impact, driving pride in our colleagues’ work.” 

What does it mean to you to have this recognised? 

“Of course I am extremely proud to have this external recognition, but for me, true recognition comes from our loyal team and client base. Most of our team have been with us for over five years and likewise our clients have been with us for many years – some for over a decade. This speaks to the true partnerships we have built both within the team and with our clients. Our client retention comes from the dedication and hard work of the Seven team, who have formed deep and longstanding relationships with our partners, and created a robust support system for each other.” 

What is your favourite benefit/perk that you offer to the team?  

“I really like the work from anywhere policy – recognising that sometimes life takes you to other places but still allowing you to balance work and life in a positive way. This year, we have seen Bella working from Cornwall, Kitty spending time with her family outside London, and this summer, I worked remotely from the US!” 

The business is growing – how will you maintain this culture? 

“We have grown quite a bit over the last few years. My absolute focus has been hiring people who I know will positively add to our culture and bring their true authentic self to work.  

“The team is smart and creative, honest and hard-working, kind and compassionate – truly caring about each other and the work we do. Each and every Seven colleague influences our culture and together we have built something we can be proud of – and I know we will keep building from here.” 

To find out more about The Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work 2026 Award, and why Seven won, visit: 195 best small places to work 2026.