BDO Central OtagoBDO Central Otago

From Intention to Impact with BDO Central Otago

When BDO set out to strengthen engagement across its Central Otago offices, the goal wasn’t another perk, it was a signal. A way of saying: we see you, and we care about your life outside work too.

Partnering with Givenwell gave their people something tangible: the freedom to support their own wellbeing, in their own way. Whether that’s a swimming pass, a mindfulness course, or something else entirely.

In professional services, “wellbeing” can easily become another slide in the HR deck. But for BDO Central Otago, it became something employees actually use, and talk about.

Within eight months:

• The office’s engagement survey results ranked among the best compared to other BDO branches.
• 0 reports of negative feedback or admin friction.
• And at the partner table? No debate. No pushback. Just quiet confidence it was working.

“It’s been a roaring success for us. People value it. It’s something that shows we’re trying to make a difference.” — Tim Coughlan, BDO Partner

Subtle signals, big impact

Sometimes, impact shows up in what doesn’t happen.

“You don’t hear anything from people. Which in our world is a good sign.”

No complaints. No admin headaches. Just people quietly using a benefit that fits seamlessly into their lives.

For leadership, it’s proof that the initiative isn’t performative, it’s practical.

Rewarding differently

Traditionally, when a team member went above and beyond, BDO Central Otago would send a gift card or bonus. They’ve re-thought that.

“We used to give a $500 Prezzy card as a thank-you. Now it might be a top-up on their Givenwell balance.”

That simple shift turns a transaction into a gesture that reinforces their wellbeing culture. Every reward becomes a reminder that care is part of their DNA.

“It’s part of who we are now.”

BDO Central Otago’s story shows that wellbeing doesn’t need to be loud to make an impact. Sometimes it’s the quiet, steady things that change a culture. The ones that say: we see you, and we’ve got you.

Give your team the freedom to support their own wellbeing. Get in touch to see how Givenwell can work for your organisation.