NEWTON — The Vernon Company, a Counselor Top 40 distributor in the promo products industry, has been recognized as a 2026 Counselor Best Place to Work, highlighting the company’s commitment to employee culture, collaboration and purpose-driven leadership.
A family-owned business, Vernon continues to stand out for its people-first approach, which shapes everything from internal teamwork to client and supplier relationships. According to Vice President of Sales and Marketing Lisa Hubbard, that culture creates a workplace that feels both supportive and empowering.
“Vernon’s unique. It’s special. It’s like coming home,” Hubbard said.
That sense of connection is reflected across the organization — from team camaraderie at national sales meetings to everyday collaboration among employees. The company also prioritizes giving back, with team volunteer efforts through Habitat for Humanity and scholarship opportunities for employees and their families.
Hubbard noted that one of the company’s defining qualities is a shared commitment to integrity.
“Being empowered to make a decision and to do the right thing — it resonates,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what seat you sit in.”
Culture Built on Connection and Recognition
Vernon’s leadership team emphasizes consistent employee engagement through creative and meaningful initiatives. Weekly activities — from themed celebrations tied to major events to casual team gatherings — help foster a sense of belonging and fun in the workplace.
The company’s size also plays a key role in its success. Large enough to offer strong infrastructure yet small enough to maintain a personal touch; Vernon ensures employees feel seen, supported and valued.
“We’re not so large that you’re just a statistic — but we’re not too small where we don’t have the infrastructure,” Hubbard said. “We can still cater to everyone individually.”
Defining Attributes of Vernon’s Workplace
- Alignment with company goals
- Collective expertise across teams
- High employee recommendation and satisfaction
A Philosophy That Guides the Team
Hubbard credits emotional intelligence as a cornerstone of Vernon’s workplace culture.
“Put yourself in their shoes and listen to understand. And remember, there’s no end-game — it’s a journey,” she said.
If the company’s culture had to be summed up another way, Hubbard points to the optimism and teamwork seen in the hit TV show Ted Lasso.
“It’s a culture of support, kindness and belief in one another,” she said. “Positivity, teamwork and integrity.”