'Good culture doesn’t come from free sweets' - says Stafford PR agency named for the second year running by the Sunday Times as one of the Best Places to Work

The list recognises companies creating meaningful, lasting environments for their teams.

The agency’s inclusion reflects its focus on culture and clarity, backed by measurable systems that support personal growth and workplace wellbeing.

Working with clients across the STEM landscape and delivering international campaigns from the heart of the Midlands, Romania and Germany, the agency has built a reputation not just for its technical storytelling but for the strength of the team behind it.

Francesca Avigo, people and culture champion at Stone Junction, said: “Over the past year, the agency has seen steady progression across the team, with employees moving into new roles through objective-led reviews that align development with clear outcomes.

“As those structures have matured, salaries have followed suit, rising in step with performance and creating a sense of momentum across the business. At the same time, staff feedback has reinforced confidence in the agency’s leadership, pointing to a workplace where expectations are understood and support is present at every stage of a career.

”From their first day, each team member follows a development path shaped around individual goals and supported by weekly coaching. The agency’s training structure spans more than 50 internal modules, complemented by regular third-party learning and access to a dedicated business coach. Pay rises follow clear, documented criteria. The goal is not just fairness, but momentum — a workplace where people can grow without waiting for vacancies or hierarchy to create space."

Tracey Vale, well-being lead at Stone Junction, said: "Well-being sits at the heart of our day-to-day operations.,

“Every team leader holds a mental health first aid qualification. All employees can access therapy sessions through the company’s healthcare scheme, and regular team breakfasts and flexible working patterns give people time and space to connect in ways that go beyond delivery. These efforts are not designed to impress but to function; they reflect the reality that good work happens when people are well supported and genuinely valued.”

Richard Stone, managing director of Stone Junction., added: “Good culture doesn’t come from one policy or campaign, or our amazing free sweetie bar.

“It comes from the way people act when they’re under pressure, when they’re learning something new or when they’re helping someone else through a challenge.

“The decisions we make about each other, how we respond, how we support, how we lead, that’s what shapes culture. I’m proud of what we’ve built and the people who’ve made it work.”