MyJobs has released the list of the most desired employers to work for in Myanmar. This is a compilation of the most sought after employers as voted for by almost 4,000 professionals. The report is based on their experiences, focusing on factors they value in the workplace.

The companies that made the top ten are:

• Max Myanmar Group of Companies
• KBZ Group of Companies
• Yoma Strategic Holdings Ltd.
• Ooredoo Myanmar
• AYA Bank
• Unilever
• DKSH Myanmar
• MPT
• Shwe Taung Group
• MyTel

The full list of the 100 companies is available at 100 Great Places to Work in Myanmar.

Talking about the report, Harry Antrakis, MyJobs CEO stated: “Firstly I’d like to share our warmest congratulations to Max Myanmar on being voted the number one employer to work for in Myanmar. We commissioned this research for professionals in Myanmar to have their voices heard on which employers are great to work for. We wanted to conduct this in an impartial way to reflect the reality of working at each company. It is reassuring to hear that so many would recommend their employer, but we also recognise the need to support the 48% who are seeking employment elsewhere.”

Max Myanmar Group topped the list. Its employees enjoy benefits like educational loans and annual bonuses. Most importantly, the company supports career advancement and development, which is crucial for any working professional. The employee’s well-being was also catered to during the challenging covid-19 pandemic. This did not go unnoticed by external professionals as one stated; “I appreciate how Max Myanmar takes care of its employees. I would like to work for them.”

Second, on the list is the KBZ Group of Companies. With its core principle being “Strengthening Myanmar and its people”. Its employees feel like they are part of a team that is spearheading change in Myanmar. Notably, its deputy CEO Daw Marlene Nang Kham Noung was recently recognised as one of ASEAN’s top business leaders in 2020 for her outstanding contribution to deepening financial inclusion and equality in Myanmar. One employee said; “We feel very proud to be part of KBZ. Everyone in my team has unique skills and supports the organisation as much as we can.”

At least half of the respondents stated that they were happy with their current employment. They cited good leadership skills, conducive working environments and being part of a multicultural team as some of the reasons for this. The other half stated the lack of a clear career progression path, micromanagement and failure of employers’ adherence to labour laws as some of their reasons for unhappiness.

It’s interesting to note that a majority of the respondents are likely to be discouraged from applying for a job due to not meeting 100% of the requirements. However, 1 in 10 35-year-olds and above said they would go ahead with the application. Likely, due to having learnt that some skills can be acquired on the job.

Another eye-opener from the results is that almost 95% of the respondents felt they couldn’t progress while working with their current employer and are looking to leave within the next five years. Employers need to work harder on staff retention strategies as respondents who felt they had opportunities to progress stated that they were not seeking alternative employment.

The full rankings and analysis can be seen at 100 Great Places to Work in Myanmar.