Business communications provider plan.com has been named in a UK newspaper’s best small companies to work for list for the third year running.

The company was placed fifth and chief executive Dan Craddock, was also crownedBusiness Leader of the Year at the awards ceremony in London where the news was announced.

More than 100 people work at the firm’s current base at IOMA House, Hope Street, Douglas, but are planning a move to new offices at Celtic House, Victoria Street, which is now being refurbished and set for completion later this year.

The annual Sunday Times list recognises what is described as the ’UK’s most attractive and effective employers, judging them on many factors, including workplace engagement, staff wellbeing, perks, company culture and values’.

A plan.com spokesman said the firm takes its place ’after another successful 12 months, underpinned by strong growth and performance’.

Nicola Patterson, director of people operations at plan.com, said: ’We’re incredibly proud to be recognised once again as one of the nation’s best employers, and of Dan for his well deserved recognition.

’His commitment to plan.com is only surpassed by his dedication and loyalty to our team.

’He is an inspiration to us all and we would not be where we are today without his determination, leadership and incredible vision.’

She said plan.com prides itself on its work hard, play hard culture, offering varied, fun and engaging wellbeing activities for all its employees. From once-in-a lifetime trips and events through its online social portal, play.plan, to training and career development opportunities as part of a growing tech company.

Mrs Patterson added: ’We know that keeping our people healthy, productive and, above all, happy, is - and will continue to be - key to our success. We’ve recognised that from the very beginning and will always put the wellbeing of our people above everything else.’

And plan.com is looking to expand its team.

The company set out its growth plans for 2020 at a staff event last November, with new product development, technological innovation, a brand new office, and employee recognition and reward high on the agenda.

Chief executive Dan Craddock took centre stage where he outlined the 12-month business plan in front of a big crowd, with a live videostream for those unable to attend in person.

In 2018 staff gave the thumbs-up when their bosses treated them to an all-expenses paid trip to Iceland.

Staff spent three days experiencing some of the world’s most spectacular sights, including exploring the Golden Circle in a convoy of plan.com monster trucks, snowmobiling across a glacier, diving head first into the Blue Lagoon and hunting down the Northern Lights.