As organisations adapt to new ways of working, and individuals look for greater flexibility and support at work than ever before, Stand has appointed Grace French as Head of Culture.

With a twofold role, Grace will drive Stand’s ambition to be the best place to work, whilst leading the consultancy’s work in helping organisations build a strong purpose and work-based culture.

This newly created role comes at a time when businesses of all shapes and sizes have had to pivot dramatically and ‘The Great Resignation’ has led many people to reconsider their career paths – no longer tolerating poor workplace practices or feeling undervalued.

Not only will Grace work closely with clients to interrogate and improve their culture, ensuring it’s fit for purpose in the new world of work; she will also spearhead Stand’s culture strategy and implement tailored programmes that prevent stressors, celebrate successes, bond colleagues, and provide support through any challenges.

Grace French, Head of Culture at Stand, says: 

“Stand exists for our colleagues just as much as our clients. Post-pandemic, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine what a positive workplace culture looks like.

“The industry needs to move away from seeing employees as simply vehicles for delivering great client work. Following a time of uncertainty and isolation, it’s imperative they feel understood, heard, and valued as people. In a hybrid landscape, this will be even more crucial to creating a thriving workplace and culture.

“I am excited to continue pushing the boundaries and prove the benefits of prioritising personal fulfilment alongside professional fulfilment.”

Laura Oliphant, Founder and Managing Director of Stand, says: 

“With 47% of people considering a career change and interrogating a brand’s values alongside benefits, organisations must do more to prove they are a great place to work. In the wake of Covid-19, organisations can no longer afford to take any employee for granted or pay lip service to wellbeing and development. The comms industry is lagging when it comes to valuing staff in a meaningful way. It’s time we did away with the infamous ‘work hard, play hard’ mantra and caught up.

“After four years at Stand, I’m delighted to appoint Grace to this new role to champion culture and set a precedent for others to follow suit.”