Oxford: Oodle Car Finance wins Employer of the Year
Just three years after launching, Oodle Car Finance, the Oxford-based company changing the way people buy used cars, has been recognised for its leadership and management with an Employer of the Year award at the Growing Business Awards.
Now in their 21st year, the Growing Business Awards recognise credible and highly valued privately-owned companies headquartered in the UK. It champions and celebrates the strength, vision and resilience of fast-growing SMEs.
The focus on ensuring its fast-growing team of 310 ‘Oodlers’ were part of its journey was a distinguishing feature for the judges. At just three years old and on a mission to revolutionise the used car buying customer experience, Oodle Car Finance has not only disrupted the UK used-car market - worth over £55 billion, it has focussed on building an exceptional place to work.
Founder and CEO Jonny Clayton commented: “Winning the Employer of the Year award is of huge importance to our business since it acknowledges the approaches we’ve taken to being an unforgettable employer. We’ve created an inclusive, transparent and energetic culture, with a clear set of values to inform, inspire and engage Oodle’s community – our people and our partners. We strongly encourage everyone to be ‘bravely honest’ in their work and to ‘strive for awesome’ – ensuring that everyone is the best versions of themselves.”
Oodle Car Finance impressed the judges with the implementation of Oodle Academy – a learning process spanning induction, skills and personal development. Launched in 2018, training ranges from influence and persuasion through to presentation and negotiation skills. Management training is also made available to all of its leaders.
Other features lauded by the judges included the way in which Oodle Car Finance onboard its newcomers (with personalised welcomes), well-managed progression pathways and reward schemes – complete with competitive pay and contributory pension. The HR team at Oodle Car Finance also received a special mention for their employee feedback methods, recruitment tactics and the positive way that they try to accommodate all requests for flexible working, part-time options and home-working.
