Alfa wins AFC Social Award for leadership in inclusion and community impact

“Winning the Social Award represents significant recognition for Alfa’s commitment to inclusion, sustainability, and community impact,” said Richard Dewire, Chief Revenue Officer at Alfa. “It really validates our belief that social responsibility drives business success.”

A social strategy that’s more than skin-deep

In 2024, Alfa formalised its values-driven approach by joining the United Nations Global Compact, aligning its operations with internationally recognised principles on human rights, labour, the environment, and anti-corruption. This move reinforced what Alfa had long embedded into its culture: doing good is central to doing business well.

With over 500 employees worldwide and a 96% retention rate, Alfa’s people-first philosophy is the engine behind its innovation, culture, and performance. According to Dewire, that strong retention is no accident: “Having a unique company purpose and culture is extremely important for Alfa. It’s a key reason for our 96% retention rate, and helps us attract top talent by fostering belonging, meaningful work and a strong brand.”

Building a culture where everyone belongs

Alfa’s Inclusion & Diversity Charter sits at the heart of its workplace culture, supported by initiatives like:

• Rise & Thrive Coaching, which supported 160 women and non-binary colleagues in 2024
• Buddy and Mentoring Programmes, including reverse mentoring to amplify underrepresented voices
• Regular DEI surveys, Pulse feedback, and career visibility strategies
• Inclusive recruitment partnerships with NIYO, codebar, and The Women’s Association
• Employee-led affinity groups, focused on LGBTQ+ inclusion, racial equity, women in tech, mental health, and parents

These actions create a culture of accountability and trust. In 2024, 86% of employees said they felt Alfa fosters an inclusive environment, and 84% said they could truly be themselves at work, a striking metric in any sector.

“It’s fundamental to employee wellbeing and belonging, drives talent attraction and retention, supports career progression, and contributes directly to our business success and brand reputation.”

Leading the way on accessibility in tech

Alfa is not just transforming its culture; it’s also transforming its product. In 2024, the company launched a major accessibility initiative to ensure its flagship enterprise software, Alfa Systems, meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards. Led by the UI/UX Design team, this effort is not just about compliance, it’s about equity.

The project’s twofold aim was (1) ensure all users, regardless of ability, can navigate Alfa Systems seamlessly; and (2) embed accessibility into all future development cycles as a core priority, not a bolt-on.

This is a game-changer in an industry where accessibility is often overlooked. Alfa is setting the bar for inclusive tech in financial services, and reshaping expectations along the way.

Amplifying impact in the community

Alfa’s social efforts extend beyond its walls and into the communities it serves. In 2024, Alfa supported Depaul UK, a charity tackling youth homelessness, through participation in the CEO Sleepout; fundraising challenges like the Three Peaks Challenge; and Alfa matched donations and team-wide campaigns.

In the US, Alfa staff volunteered with Free Bikes 4 Kidz Detroit, helping refurbish bicycles for underprivileged children. These activities bring employees together around shared values and deliver tangible benefits to the wider world.

Creating opportunities for future talent

Alfa’s Women in Tech Insight Days, Alfa Work Experience (AWE) programme, and mentoring through NIYO and codebar are actively reshaping the pipeline of future technologists and consultants, especially from underrepresented backgrounds.

Through 12-week mentoring sessions, technical training, and real-world exposure, Alfa is building bridges for the next generation, while ensuring its own future is powered by diverse talent and perspectives.

A model for purpose-driven growth

Reflecting on the awards evening, Dewire shared: “The AFC Awards are always a highlight of the year for us. It was a great event that was about more than networking – it felt like a true celebration of innovation and achievement.”

Alfa’s Social Award win at the AFC Summer Awards 2025 recognises an organisation that’s weaving values into the fabric of its operations, across technology, people, partnerships, and purpose. By aligning ESG principles with commercial objectives, Alfa proves that doing good isn’t just compatible with business success, it’s a catalyst for it.