The charter, established by The Highland Council last year, is built around four key employer commitments:

• Fair Pay – paying all staff the Real Living Wage
• Employ Highland – supporting local workforce development, including engagement with schools, colleges, and third‑sector volunteering
• Procure Highland – strengthening Highland supply chains and delivering community benefits
• Employer of Choice – investing in staff and ensuring fair work practices that help attract and retain talent

Beyond employment, the assessment process also highlighted the wider contribution that Harper Macleod makes to the local economy in Inverness. Through the firm’s ongoing presence and client engagement in the Highlands, Islands and Moray, it plays an important role in supporting the Highlands’ circular economy. This includes using a wide range of local suppliers such as hospitality venues, event spaces, catering companies, audio visual specialists and other service providers.

Chris Kerr, lead partner for the Highlands, Islands and Moray at Harper Macleod, said: “This gold accreditation is a testament to the efforts of colleagues across Harper Macleod who support the firm’s work in the Highlands every day.

“It reflects the significant and lasting impact we have in the region, now recognised through this achievement and evidenced by the strength of our relationship with communities and businesses across the Highlands.”