The Top Places to Work in PR: Nonprofit—Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)

As a nonprofit research organization that does government and industry work, GTRI’s external face is “creative, innovative and all business,” says one employee. “But internally, we are a very fun organization with people who don’t take themselves too seriously.”

The playful culture suits the team well, with employee tenures averaging 10+ years. “When asked, they say they love the constant challenges, and that no two days are the same,” a manager says. “Great benefits and excellent compensation are also a plus.”

These advantages aside, the team’s direct access to the institute’s decision makers means that communications employees are always part of the organization’s strategic planning process; their ideas support the core strategy, making for a highly entrepreneurial, rewarding environment. Another plus: flexible schedules.

“Telecommuting is not only allowed—it is encouraged,” says one institute employee. “We find that it improves productivity and reduces sick time. It also keeps employees happy and out of the lousy Atlanta traffic.”

For those employees who do want to go into the office and who have children, Georgia Tech has a day-care facility one block from its campus that is available to all institute employees.

All told, the pervasive enthusiasm among employees speaks volumes about the quality of life at GTRI. “I have never had a job where, after four years, I still look forward to going to the office every day,” a communications employee says. “I have a feeling I will be staying here for a good long time.” PRN

October 19, 2009