Small Business runner-up: Hunter Employment

At Hunter Employment Services Inc., the 2010 Small Business Workplace Excellence runner-up, people are their business.

Founded in 1995, Hunter Employment is a full-service staffing agency committed to putting folks to work in temporary, full-time, part-time and temp-to-hire positions. Hunter also provides direct hire, direct placement and payroll services.

When Thomas and Jane Kiley started Hunter Employment 15 years ago, their goal was to provide great customer service and personal attention to clients. They also strived to set up a company “where employees are valued for who they are first and then encouraged and helped to be the very best they can be within the company.”

That commitment is still alive today, says Brenda Osung.

In a form nominating Hunter Employment for the Workplace Excellence award in the Small Business category, Osung said: “My co-workers are family oriented and the environment is easy-going. The owners and management are very flexible when it comes to family matters.”

Hunter is also dedicated to supporting staff members who pursue continuing education programs, including classes at Arizona Western College, Internet training and organizations such as Rotary International.

All employees at Hunter have access to a company vehicle and gas card for use traveling to and from company-related trips in and out of town. Bonuses are paid at Christmas and on the employee’s anniversary.

With six employees, Hunter has “put together a group of talented people who are able to satisfy the demands of our hugely diverse clientele, increase productivity and keep legal and insurance costs affordable,” Osung said.