Singapore Airlines (SIA) has edged out energy company Exxon Mobil and consumer electronics maker Sony, to be named Singapore's most attractive employer at the inaugural Randstad Award.

SIA was recognised for having a great working atmosphere and culture, excellent training, strong leadership and competitive salary.

Singapore Airlines Senior Vice President Human Resources, Christopher Cheng Kian Hai, said "At the core, is our strong organisation culture, which has enabled the company to attain success over the years, and provide our employees with satisfying careers. We will continue to reinforce that. We are therefore very grateful and honoured to receive this Award."

The award is based on the opinion of 4000 employees in Singapore.

Their feedback on metrics such as salary, job security and work-life balance provides companies with a valuable snapshot of their employer attractiveness.

The award was presented at an exclusive gala dinner at the Grand Hyatt last night.

Mr Kwan Chee Wei, Executive Director of the Human Capital Leadership Institute, was the guest-of-honour at the event.

Besides SIA, Exxon Mobil and Sony winning the top three prizes, three other companies also won at the award ceremony.

Regonised by respondents for its commitment to building a sustainable business over the long-term, Standard Chartered was the winner of the 'Most attractive employer in the banking sector'.

IBM won 'Most attractive employer for mature workers' for having strategies to retain and maximise the careers of the mature workforce.

And 'Most attractive employer for career progession' was given to Deloitte for developing strong career paths and investing in an environment of continuous learning.

"Those companies that present a complete package, offering a vast array of benefits and entitlements to employers are the companies that will continue to win the best talent," explained Ms Deb Loveridge, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Randstad.

rchia@sph.com.sg