Northwestern College was recently named a best-in-class employer for human resource management by Gallagher, its benefits consultant. Shown with the certificate are, second and third from left, Nancy Hughes, Northwestern’s payroll and benefits coordinator, and Deb Sandbulte, director of human resources. They are joined by Gallagher representatives, from left, Al Mataloni, Kay Foxhoven and Jay Jodlowski.

Northwestern College Recognized as Best-in-Class Employer

Northwestern College has been named a best-in-class employer for human resource (HR) management based on an in-depth benchmarking analysis of more than 1,600 organizations by Gallagher, the college’s benefits consultant. The honor is given for scoring in the top 10% in controlling health care costs and managing HR.

The criteria used to review the employers included aligning people management with organizational philosophy and operational priorities, investing in employee growth and well-being to boost job performance and engagement, and recognizing the role of strategic health care management in engaging and retaining high-value employees. The Gallagher survey data identified best practices that have enabled organizations to minimize turnover and unlock cost efficiencies, creating opportunities to invest in salaries and benefits.

“This award recognizes that our human resources department does a good job for our employees— advocating for them and representing them well with the benefits they offer and policies they adopt—while certainly serving the college well too,” says Doug Beukelman, vice president for financial affairs. “The depth of experience our HR staff members have shows through in their knowledge level and understanding of benefit packages and practices of employment as they deal with employees. That experience is a real advantage, both for the college and employees.”

Gallagher is a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm with headquarters in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.