Abbotsford Recognized as One of Canada’s Best Employers for 2025

The City of Abbotsford has achieved a significant milestone by being named one of the best employers in Canada for 2025, according to the latest annual report from Canadian HR Reporter. This marks the city’s inaugural appearance on the prestigious list, which evaluates organizations based on overall job satisfaction among their employees.

Abbotsford is one of only four employers in the category for organizations with over 500 employees. It shares this recognition with notable companies such as Bethesda Community Services, CAA Club Group of Companies, and Pet Valu Canada. Mayor Ross Siemens emphasized the importance of the city’s workforce, stating that employees are the backbone of local government, essential for delivering high-quality services to the community.

Commitment to Employee Engagement

“We are proud to foster a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and connected to meaningful public service, making Abbotsford a great place to live, play, and work,” Siemens said. The city’s commitment to ensuring that its workforce is involved, safe, and engaged is a key strategic priority for the council.

To qualify for the Canadian HR Reporter list, an employer must achieve an overall job satisfaction rating of at least 75 percent. Employers are increasingly focusing on flexible work options, a trend highlighted by recruitment consultancy Robert Walters, which reported a notable rise in employee preference for such arrangements since 2023. Despite this shift, traditional benefits such as medical and dental coverage continue to be paramount for many employees when considering new job opportunities.

As of the latter half of 2025, approximately 26 percent of employees are actively seeking new positions, according to Robert Walters. This statistic underscores the competitive advantage that a strong employer reputation can provide across various sectors. In British Columbia, where the city is located, job satisfaction levels are particularly concerning; Statistics Canada revealed that only 67.8 percent of workers expressed satisfaction with their jobs at the end of 2022.

Fostering a Diverse Work Environment

The City of Abbotsford attributes its success on the list to its efforts in creating a work environment that maximizes the diverse talents, backgrounds, and perspectives of all employees. This approach not only enhances employee satisfaction but also contributes to the overall effectiveness of local governance.

Among the 25 employers honored in the Canadian HR Reporter list, only a select few are based in British Columbia, making the city’s recognition particularly noteworthy. Those interested in exploring job opportunities with the City of Abbotsford can find current openings by visiting their official careers page at www.abbotsford.ca/city-hall/human-resources/career-opportunities.

In conclusion, the City of Abbotsford’s recognition as one of Canada’s top employers reflects a commitment to employee satisfaction and community service. As the job market continues to evolve, maintaining a positive work environment will be essential for attracting and retaining talent in the region.