Encore, a global leader in event production, is proud to announce it has been named as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® by Fortune magazine and Great Place To Work®. This is the first time Encore has been named to this prestigious list, and it follows three straight years of Encore being certified as a Great Place To Work, which included all 11 eligible countries last year.
The 100 Best Companies to Work For list honours companies that build a high-trust workplace environment, measured through Great Place To Work’s proprietary survey platform. Confidential feedback from more than 1.3 million people are matched against HR data from participating companies. Only companies with consistently high survey responses across the 60 statements that comprise the Trust Index™ Survey are honoured with placement on the list. The survey measures key behaviours that drive trust in management, connection with colleagues, and loyalty to the company.
Encore also took part in a culture audit, which explored its team member value proposition, the impact of its nine Business Resource Groups, career development and certification programs, internal recognition and rewards platforms, and core values.
“Being named to this year’s Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list is a significant milestone for Encore and an incredible testament to the culture built by our 12,000 team members across the world,” said Ben Erwin, President & CEO. “At the same time, we all recognise that this is just a point on our journey towards excellence for our customers, venue partners and our team members.”
The Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list is highly competitive. Companies are only considered for the list if they are a Great Place to Work Certified™ organisation with 1,000 or more team members in the U.S. Companies are assessed on their ability to create a great team member experience that cuts across job level, business unit, race, gender, age, disability status, or any aspect of team member identity.
Earning a spot on the list is an important indicator of overall company performance. Companies on the 100 Best list consistently outperform the market and exceed their competitors on key business measures like retention and innovation.
“Leaders are the reason a business succeeds or fails,” says Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work. “In the more than 30 years we’ve studied the workplace, our data prove that how you treat people shows up in your financial performance.”
This year’s list of winners offers compelling insights into the workforce strategies needed to thrive in the AI era.
“Fortune is happy to have collaborated with Great Place To Work for the 28th year to recognise the 100 Best Companies to Work For,” says Alyson Shontel, editor-in-chief of Fortune. “In a difficult macro environment with unprecedented challenges, these companies seemed to navigate their organisations toward steady and positive working environments for team members. Congratulations to all who were recognised.”
About Encore
Encore is the world’s largest event production company, supporting meeting and event professionals with event technology, production, tradeshow and exhibition services. With unmatched capabilities, a hospitality mindset and award-winning customer service, Encore is the trusted partner for 2,100 premier hotels and venues worldwide, serving thousands of customers and interacting with 25 million people annually. Encore is a certified Great Place To Work™, a recognition that highlights the company’s continual investments in its talented workforce as the key to unlocking event customers’ greatest successes. The company is headquartered in Schiller Park, Illinois, and operates in 21 countries across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and Asia Pacific.
About the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For
Great Place to Work selected the 100 Best list by gathering and analysing more than 1.3 million confidential survey responses representing the experiences of more than 8.4 million U.S. employees. Of those, over 670,000 responses were received from employees at eligible companies, and this list is based on that feedback. Organisations are assessed on their efforts to create generous, supportive, high-performance work experiences for every employee in the organisation. Companies must be Great Place To Work Certified™ with 1,000 or more employees in the U.S. and cannot be a government agency.
To be considered, all companies use the Great Place to Work Trust Index™ survey. To get on this list next year, start here.
About Great Place To Work
As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Its proprietary platform and Great Place To Work Model help companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified and receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces™ list.
Follow Great Place To Work on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram or visit greatplacetowork.com and sign up for the newsletter to learn more.
About Fortune
Fortune upholds a legacy of award-winning writing and trusted reporting for executives who want to make business better. Independently owned, with a global perspective and digital agility, Fortune tells the stories of a new generation of innovators, builders, and risk-takers. Online and in print, Fortune measures corporate performance through rigorous benchmarks and holds companies accountable. Fortune creates communities by convening true thought leaders and iconoclasts — those who shape industry, commerce, and society — through powerful and prestigious lists, events, and conferences, such as the iconic Fortune 500, the CEO Initiative, and Most Powerful Women. For more information, visit fortune.com.
Encore is proud to be Certified™ by Great Place To Work® for the third year in a row.
The prestigious award is based entirely on what current employees say about their experience working at Encore. Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviours proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.
“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasises that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture.
“By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Encore stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.”
“We are thrilled to again be certified as a Great Place To Work® as we consider employee experience a top priority every day,” said Scott Nodsle, Managing Director, International (EMEA and APAC).
“This certification is a testament to the positive culture we have cultivated at Encore, where every team member feels valued and empowered. Our continued success is a direct result of the hard work, dedication, and passion of our incredible employees. We celebrate this achievement and extend a huge thank you to the team for their amazing commitment and contributions.”
“Being awarded the Great Place To Work Certification is a significant achievement that demands commitment to enhancing employee experience,” says Jennifer Purcell, Human Resources Director, APAC. She highlights that this Certification is uniquely awarded based on direct feedback from employees about their workplace culture.
“Encore’s successful attainment of this certification underscores its status as a employer of choice, dedicated to fostering an exceptional work environment for its team members. To achieve this for 3 years running really is a credit to not only our leadership team, but to every team member who everyday makes Encore, a truly Great Place to Work”.
Since gaining our first accreditation in 2022, Encore have improved our benefit offerings to our team members based on their feedback and input. This includes focused career development opportunities, paid parental leave and an enhanced onboarding process. Not to mention Basketball hoops at our base offices.
According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.
Globally, Encore is certified in 11 countries including: Austria, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Mexico, Switzerland, UAE, United Kingdom, United States, New Zealand.
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About Great Place To Work®
As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work® brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their proprietary platform and For All™ Model helps companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified™ or receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces™ List.
Encore Event Technologies is thrilled to announce its selection as the exclusive in-house creative event production partner for Crown Resorts in Sydney, Melbourne, and now Perth. This prestigious partnership, following a highly competitive bid process, solidifies Encore’s reputation as a leader in delivering exceptional event experiences in Australia’s top luxury hotels.
Encore’s new role as the in-house event production partner for Crown Resorts across three major cities is a significant achievement that reflects the company’s expertise, creativity, and commitment to delivering unparalleled event experiences.
Encore’s role at Crown Resorts involves managing a wide range of events, from corporate galas and conferences to weddings and private celebrations. The team at Encore will collaborate closely with the Crown Resorts team to ensure every event is executed flawlessly, with a seamless blend of luxury and creativity that exceeds expectations.
“We are honoured to be the exclusive event production partner for Crown Resorts in Sydney, Melbourne, and now Perth,” said Scott Nodsle, Managing Director, International (EMEA & APAC).
“This partnership allows us to bring our expertise to some of Australia’s most iconic luxury resorts, and we are excited to create unforgettable events that will leave a lasting impression.”
Crown Resorts offers a luxurious backdrop for events, with state-of-the-art facilities, stunning architecture, and a commitment to exceptional customer service. The venues in Crown Sydney, Crown Melbourne, and Crown Perth feature flexible event spaces, gourmet dining options, and breathtaking views, providing the perfect setting for any event.
Encore’s partnership with Crown Resorts further expands its network of in-house partnerships in Australia and throughout the Asia Pacific. With this new collaboration, Encore continues to set the standard for creative event production, ensuring that every event is a unique and memorable experience.
Encore in Fiji, proudly announces the launch of VULITARA, its dedicated technical training program aimed at fostering local talent and providing opportunities for the younger generation to thrive in the dynamic events industry.
Launch event highlights
The launch event was a vibrant and culturally rich celebration of the spirit of Fijian heritage and community. Held at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spaon May 29, 2024, the event was a testament to Encore’s dedication to empowering local youth through education and opportunity.
The event began with a traditional Fijian welcome ceremony, featuring a meke dance performance that highlighted the cultural significance of the initiative. This was followed by formal introduction from Tim Keeling, Encore General Manager Pacific & Queensland, who emphasised the transformative potential of the VULITARA program.
Guests included community members from Somosomo village in the Yasawa islands, local dignitaries from Denarau, industry leaders, hotel managers and the aspiring trainees and their families, all of whom enjoyed the interactive sessions. One of the key highlights was the surprise presentation of the trainee’s personal gear, uniforms and equipment by three star players of the Fijian Dura national rugby team. . Next there was a live demonstration of Encore’s latest advanced technical production equipment the trainees will be learning.
The event also featured a cocktail function, allowing trainees and their families to connect with industry experts and mentors. This interaction aimed to inspire and motivate the young attendees, highlighting the supportive community that Encore fosters.
The launch event not only marked the beginning of the VULITARA Technical Training Program, but also celebrated the unity and collaborative spirit of Encore and the local community in Fiji. It reinforced Encore’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of industry leaders and contributing to the vibrant future of Fiji’s economy.
Program background
VULITARA, derived from the Fijian word for “Internship,” reflects Encore’s commitment to nurturing aspiring professionals and supporting their journey towards excellence. This initiative underscores Encore’s dedication to investing in the future of Fiji’s event production landscape.
The VULITARA program is designed to offer participants a comprehensive learning experience across various facets of event management, including customer service, sound engineering, lighting design, stagecraft, theming, sales strategies, and operational insights. Interns will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop essential skills under the guidance of seasoned industry professionals.
“Our ultimate goal with VULITARA is to not only provide valuable training but also to integrate successful candidates into our full-time team,” says Tim Keeling, Encore General Manager Pacific & Queensland. “We believe in empowering individuals to reach their full potential while contributing to Encore’s mission of growth and expansion throughout Fiji.”
“We are excited to invite passionate and driven individuals to join us in shaping the future of Fiji’s event production industry. VULITARA is not just a training program; it’s a commitment to Fiji and its people.”
Encore prides itself on being more than just an employer; it’s a community where individuals are valued for their unique talents and contributions. Trainees participating in VULITARA can expect a supportive environment where they are encouraged to connect with their work, customers, and peers, fostering personal and professional growth.
Encore is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Nodsle as Managing Director, International (APAC & EMEA). In his new role, Scott will provide strategic leadership and oversight for Encore’s operations in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) and APAC (Asia-Pacific) regions.
Scott’s appointment underscores Encore’s commitment to strengthening its international presence and delivering world-class service to clients across diverse markets. With a wealth of experience spanning over two decades, Scott brings invaluable insight and expertise to his expanded role.
In his new role, Scott will be responsible for supporting Encore teams, partners, and customers, with a primary focus on driving business growth, expanding the customer base, and establishing a global network of support to ensure seamless service delivery.
As a seasoned leader with a proven track record of success, Scott possesses extensive experience. Coupled with his passion for fostering talent and delivering exceptional experiences, this makes him the ideal candidate to lead Encore’s international operations.
Scott joined Encore in 2000 and has held various key roles within the company, including Managing Director – APAC, Group Operations Director – EMEA, and Divisional Vice President of Southern US. His diverse background and deep understanding of the industry position him well to drive Encore’s continued success in international markets.
“I am honoured to take on this new role and excited to lead Encore’s international operations into the next phase of growth,” said Scott. “I am committed to empowering our teams, strengthening our partnerships, and ensuring that Encore continues to deliver outstanding experiences and events worldwide.”
Scott holds a Master of Business Administration and Management, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science in Business Management and Entrepreneurship, both from Texas A&M University. He currently resides in Sydney with his wife and two sons.
Encore has been awarded the prestigious State (NSW) award in the Meetings & Events Australia Awards for Incentive Event of the Year for their production of the gala dinners for the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar. This award acknowledges the immense creativity, technical brilliance, and seamless teamwork that went into creating the stunning series of events for Amway’s Diamond-level top performers.
Over a two-month period from October to December 2023, a delegation of 10,000 Chinese visitors experienced a memorable and awe-inspiring series of events across New Zealand as part of Amway’s extensive recognition program. The celebrations culminated in 15 spectacular gala dinners held at two iconic venues: Auckland’s Viaduct Event Centre and Queenstown’s Ice Arena.
Encore’s award-winning production featured a stunning array of innovative technologies and creative design elements that left guests in awe. The highlight of the galas was a jaw-dropping visual spectacle that included a blended 180-degree projection screen, 80 spectacular table projectors, special effect lasers, snow machines, and multisensory interactive displays representing earth, water, fire, and air. The immersive content, seamlessly integrated into the event’s theme, showcased New Zealand’s natural beauty and Amway’s core values of harmony, wonder, and partnership.
During each gala dinner, the Viaduct Event Centre and Queenstown’s Ice Arena underwent dramatic transformations with breathtaking visual effects, including lava projections and stunning custom motion design content across both locations. Guests were treated to high-energy performances by Strings of Fire, JGEEKS, C-Pop singer Laurence Larson, and multimedia performers Vosper Tron, all perfectly choreographed to create a captivating and unforgettable experience.
Encore’s success in executing this complex and large-scale production is a testament to the team’s creativity, expertise, and dedication. The journey began one year prior with a competitive pitch and continued with meticulous planning, including initial design concepts, storyboarding, and first renders, leading up to the remarkable final galas.
Michael Magafa, Commercial Director APAC, was delighted with the win, commenting,
“I'm thrilled to share the fantastic news of our win! This achievement is more than just an award—it’s a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication that our team brings to every project."
Producing the gala dinners for the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar was an incredible feat. It challenged us to push the boundaries of what an incentive event could be, and I’m proud to say that our team rose to the occasion. We crafted a series of breathtaking experiences that not only celebrated the outstanding achievements of Amway’s Diamond-level performers, but also set a new standard for event production.”
Encore proudly announces its selection by luxury hotel Sheraton Grand Mirage as the exclusive in-house partner to deliver creative event production services following a highly competitive bid process. The prestigious partnership marks a significant milestone for both entities, reaffirming their commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences in the heart of the Gold Coast.
After a rigorous selection process, Encore was appointed, securing the coveted contract to return to Sheraton Grand Mirage as its trusted partner in delivering exceptional events. This achievement underscores Encore’s reputation for excellence and their proven ability to exceed client expectations in the creation of luxurious experiences and truly unique events.
“Sheraton Grand Mirage together with Marriot conducted a thorough evaluation of potential partners and Encore stood out as the clear choice due to their unparalleled expertise, creativity and dedication to customer service excellence,” said Scott Breen, Hotel Manager, Sheraton Grand Mirage. “We are thrilled to welcome them back as our in-house partner and look forward to creating unforgettable experiences together.”
With this exclusive partnership, guests of Sheraton Grand Mirage can anticipate a seamless blend of luxury accommodation and world-class event delivery. From elegant corporate galas, to engaging conferences, weddings and other unique experiences, Encore will collaborate closely with the hotel team to ensure every event is executed flawlessly, surpassing even the highest expectations.
“We are honoured to have been selected as the exclusive in-house partner for Sheraton Grand Mirage and are excited to continue our journey together,” said Scott Nodsle, Managing Director, International.
“This partnership represents a shared commitment to customer service excellence and innovation, and we are dedicated to delivering exceptional event experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
The appointment further grows Encore’s expanding network of in-house partnerships in Australia and throughout the Asia Pacific.
Sheraton Grand Mirage provides a stunning environment for large meetings, intimate social events and everything in between. The venue provides 14 flexible meeting rooms perfect for meeting, connecting and collaborating, in iconic event spaces, which overlooks the resort’s lagoons and offers panoramic ocean views. With spectacular restaurants, a contemporary bar and a swim-up pool bar, the resort is a perfect location from meeting and learning during the day, to sundown celebration or relaxation.
Leading event management company Encore is thrilled to announce a partnership with CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park, a premier conferences and events venue in Melbourne’s heart of sport and entertainment.
This collaboration aims to redefine event experiences and provide clients with unparalleled services in an iconic setting.
The collaboration between Encore and CENTREPIECE will offer unique and exceptional event experiences for event planners and their guests. With CENTREPIECE’s variety of sophistication and well-equipped event spaces – including a grand hall, versatile meeting spaces and auditorium – the venue is perfectly positioned to elevate events to new heights.
Encore’s team of creative, technical and production specialists will provide industry-leading event services in-house at CENTREPIECE. Together, Encore and CENTREPIECE will redefine event excellence in Melbourne.
Encore’s partnership with CENTREPIECE will embody a shared commitment to social and sustainable practices. Both Encore and CENTREPIECE prioritise Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) initiatives, striving to set industry-leading standards. This dedication was recently recognised when Encore earned the prestigious bronze standard from the independent sustainability rating agency, EcoVadis.
Key benefits of the partnership include:
- Stunning spaces: CENTREPIECE boasts a selection of elegant and versatile event spaces, perfect for a wide range of occasions, from corporate conferences to gala dinners.
- Complete service offering: Guests attending events at CENTREPIECE will have access to unique spaces, combined with Encore’s full range of award-winning creative, audio-visual technology and event production services.
- Expert collaboration: The partnership between Encore and CENTREPIECE brings together expert teams dedicated to delivering exceptional service with one of Melbourne’s most dynamic venues. From event planning to execution, clients can expect a seamless and memorable experience.
Scott Nodsle (Managing Director, Encore APAC) commented on this latest signing:
“We are excited to join forces with CENTREPIECE to offer our clients an unmatched blend of premium event production services at an iconic venue. This partnership reflects our commitment to elevating the standard of event experiences and creating lasting memories for our clients.”
Daniele Bleazby, Director of Venues, Melbourne & Olympic Parks:
“CENTREPIECE is delighted to partner with Encore, a renowned leader in event production. Together, we look forward to providing a seamless and unparalleled experience for clients seeking an exceptional venue partner and world-class event services.”
About CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park:
Located in the heart of the iconic Melbourne & Olympic Parks precinct, and connected seamlessly to the CBD, CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park opened in early 2022.
Purpose-built and architecturally designed to be best-in-class for sustainability and flexibility, CENTREPIECE offers a range of versatile spaces including a grand hall, auditorium and pre-function areas for events at any scale.
Offering a boundless range of experiences that are unique, impactful and utterly unforgettable, CENTREPIECE’s ‘Victoria- First’ philosophy to event delivery, from food and drinks through to styling, offers a uniquely local experience.
About EcoVadis:
EcoVadis is an independent sustainability rating agency that determines its sustainability ratings based on international standards such as the principles of the UN Global Compact, the conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
Encore has been focused on reducing our impact on the environment for may years and our endeavours have seen us awarded an EcoVadis accreditation.
In continuing these commitments, we are delighted to announce the launch of our new electronic vehicle in Auckland and are soon to be taking delivering of our first hybrid truck in Melbourne.
“We have been moving to more energy efficient vehicles for many years.”, commented Nathan Mckenzie, Operations Director APAC who is responsible for many of Encore APAC’s sustainable practices and projects.
“In line with the Government’s commitment to deliver a low emissions vehicle target Encore has begun is transitioning its current fleet of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric and hybrid technology.”
“Delivery of the new fleet is planned to continue, and as older vehicles reach the end of lease they will be replaced and we plan the new hybrid and electrical fleet will be fully implemented by 2026.”
Scott Nodsle, Managing Director of Encore APAC noted,
“The new fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles are an exciting and important development in Encore’s strategies to be more sustainable and is part of our focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance practices”.
Encore assessed several factors, including battery consumption, charging capability, vehicle handling, maneuverability and performance in a variety of traffic conditions, driver and passenger comfort, carrying capacity when selecting vehicles which make the least impact and also suit our teams’ needs and equipment moving requirements.
While the introduction of electric vehicles into the Encore fleet will initially cost more than that of equivalent internal combustion engine vehicles, savings in on running costs, including fuel and maintenance in addition to the many benefits to reducing our total emissions are expected.
