16. XMA Corporation • 7 Perimeter Road, Manchester xmacorp.com

Top Employee Engagement Survey Measures: We regularly discuss our progress toward our goals and objectives: 95% agree. I can keep a reasonable balance between work and personal life: 95% agree

General Manager: Marc Smith
Years in Business: 22
Full-time Employees: 43 (42 full-time in NH)
Years on List: 3

From flexible work options to employee-driven innovation, this manufacturer proves that a high-tech workplace can also be a deeply human one. “Because we’re a smaller company, we’re able to stay connected with our people in real, personal ways,” says XMA Controller Peter Richard.

Staying connected means listening to employees’ needs through anonymous surveys, direct feedback and follow ups. “These small actions add up and help create a place where people feel heard,” Richard says.

The company offers a 9/80 schedule where employees work nine-hour days and get every other Friday off, as well as birthdays, generous parental leave (four weeks paternity leave and 11 weeks maternity leave), and fully paid short- and long-term disability. Beyond traditional paid time off (which ranges from 14 days to 40 days annually depending on length of service) and 13 paid holidays, XMA offers two paid “Wellness Days” annually, encouraging employees to take proactive time for mental and physical well-being, no questions asked.

Health benefits include two zero-deductible medical plans, dental and vision plans, annual tuition reimbursement of $3,000, student loan repayment, and even pet insurance. XMA’s Wellness Credit HRA reimburses employees for their deductible if they complete key preventive health actions.

At XMA, all-staff bonuses are tied to company performance and can reach up to 11% of annual salary. Telecommuters get home visits from IT to set up secure, functional workspaces, and managers receive monthly stipends for phone and internet costs.

XMA’s tight-knit team spirit shines in its recognition culture. This ranges from monthly team member awards with handwritten notes and gift cards to the prestigious Fred Goodrich Award, which might come with concert tickets or even a trip to Maui.