First of all, let me state that I am in management. I started out as a climber/arborist and worked up. Having been in tree care or tree services for over 30 years, I have seen a lot. A lot of change and a lot of companies.

It is a difficult business to be in and be an excellent employer; first of all because many customers do not realize the overhead and cost of the business - and because so many competitors are sub-standard - lacking quality education, not carrying insurance or workers compensation. How can any employer compete effectively against those odds.

Having said that, I think Simcoe Muskoka does well, and is on part with some of the best in the industry.

Business model, vision and strategy - as I am working with this I get to see it. If the company is able to successfuly pull off its strategy and plans, then it will be one of the best in the area, if not the best.

The best trained and best equipped. The business model is customer focused. But it does have a cost, and are customers willing to pay for premium tree services?

Management's skills - I am a little biased on this one.

Internal Communicaiton and Feedback - I know try hard and this is one item disucssed regularly at senior management meetings.

Schedule, workload and family balance can be difficult but think it is managed fairly well. When an emergency happens, it gets crazy, otherwise think it is fairly good.

Advancement - well it worked for me.

Recommend - sure do.