ABACUS has retained its Investors in People (IIP) accreditation for the third time.

The local fiduciary and fund services provider gained the accreditation following a two day assessment which incorporated 21 interviews with randomly selected staff members.

It also included an evaluation based on the IIP's three principles "Plan, Do and Review" – which are underpinned by 10 indicators of good practice each with a number of evidence requirements.

Group chairman Chris Talavera said: "The Investors in People standard is a widely well-known benchmark which recognises the improvement of business performance and competitiveness through the effective management and development of employees. As it is one of our key objectives within our corporate strategy this re-accreditation evidences our ongoing commitment to training, development, and best practise.

"I am delighted that we have retained the Investors in People standard for the third time. It will prove very beneficial as an ongoing measurement of our progress helping us to continuously improve and develop."

HR manager Sue Hammond said: "We place significant focus on the progress of our staff and as a result invest time and resources into the development opportunities made available to them. The feedback from Investors in people was both positive and encouraging and our latest re-accreditation is a great reward for everyone at Abacus."

Clare Christian MLC for the Department of Economic Development said: "Abacus are to be congratulated on yet again achieving the Investors in People standard. It is clear from the IIP report that Abacus continues to retain highly motivated and committed staff who contribute to the success of the firm.

"Abacus clearly has a supportive culture that encourages creative and innovative ideas that are nurtured through their robust and well structured appraisal system - ensuring good investment in staff training and development."

Abacus first met the standard in 2003 and was re-accredited in 2006 and in 2008.