(ZENIT News / Philadelphia, 03.09.2024).- Ascension, a Catholic media company, especially editorial, with headquarters in Philadelphia’s metropolitan area, has achieved a notable milestone on being included in the list of Fortune Best Small Workplaces 2024. This achievement is especially significant, given that it is the first time that a Catholic organization receives this recognition, consolidating Ascension as a model to follow in the creation of exceptional work environments.
What distinguishes Ascension is not only its success in the media realm, with popular podcasts such as “The Bible in a Year” and “The Catechism in a Year”, presented by Father Mike Schmitz, but also its innovative focus on the management of remote work. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company has adopted a completely remote model, trusting in careful contract processes to ensure that its employees are self-directed and highly motivated.
The result of this strategy is a work environment where 99% of the employees consider Ascension as a “great place to work,” according to a survey carried out by Great Places to Work. This high level of. work satisfaction has enabled the company to maintain a low rate of employee rotation (less than 3%), which in turn has enabled it to redirect resources to improve the benefits and professional development of its team.
Leave Policies That Promote a Culture of Life
One of the pillars of Ascension’s success is its focus on the wellbeing of its employees, particularly in regard to its family leave policies. In 2023, the company implemented new policies that broadened significantly maternity and paternity leave, as well as support for adoptive parents. Moreover, it introduced a unique leave policy for couples experiencing the loss of a pregnancy, demonstrating a profound commitment to provide emotional and family support to its employees.
Jonathan Strate, who has been at the front of Ascension as Executive Director since 2017, expressed his conviction that Catholic organizations have the responsibility to lead by example with policies focused on the family. According to Strate, these policies are not only an act of justice, but also an effective way to build what he calls a “culture of life” within the work environment.
A Model for Other Organizations to Follow
Ascension’s intentional focus on the employee’s experience, has not only generated loyalty and dedication within the company, but has also had an impact on the Catholic business community in general. The company has shared publicly its leave policy templates, encouraging other organizations to adopt similar measures.
Strate underscores that to invest in the satisfaction and wellbeing of employees is essential to maintain a competitive work environment and avoid the loss of valuable talent. His philosophy is clear: when companies show a genuine commitment to their employees, the latter respond with greater dedication and loyalty.
Despite being a Catholic organization, Strate emphasizes that Ascension has created an attractive work environment for all, regardless of their religious beliefs.
This inclusive focus, together with its commitment to work excellence, has enabled the company to be outstanding not only in its sector but also in the work ambit in general.
In a world where work satisfaction and the retention of employees is increasingly valued, Ascension is presented as an example to follow, demonstrating that it is possible to combine faith with innovation and the wellbeing of employees.
