Third Federal Named Top Large Employer In Northeast Ohio

CLEVELAND, June 25, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Third Federal Savings & Loan (Nasdaq:TFSL) has been named the Top Workplace in Northeast Ohio. Based on surveys completed by employees (associates) of the bank, Third Federal placed highest in four of six categories relating to company direction, training, management, pay and benefits. 

Working with The Plain Dealer, the survey was administered by an independent researcher, Workplace Dynamics, who had responsibility over tabulation of the results as well.

With more than 95 percent of Third Federal's Northeast Ohio associates (737 of 777) completing the online survey, many associates commented on the security they feel and the confidence they have in the direction of the company, even through difficult economic times.

"We are able to ride out this rough time in our nation's economy and we are poised to continue to grow in the future," said Chairman and CEO Marc A. Stefanski. "While some things are out of our control, we continue to offer associates opportunities without compromising their benefits."

Benefits at Third Federal go beyond traditional offerings. Programs like Commit to Fit and Commit to Quit, now in their fifth year, offer associates the chance for up to a $1000 after-tax bonus for lifestyle changes that positively impact their health and well-being each year. "When we started these programs, they were unique and the financial incentive was a primary driver for some," Stefanski said. "Now, associates report that the positive changes have less to do with the financial incentive and more to do with having an employer that cares."

Third Federal Savings and Loan is a leading provider of savings and mortgage products. Founded in Cleveland in 1938 as a mutual association by Ben and Gerome Stefanski, Third Federal became a public company in 2007 (Nasdaq:TFSL). The Association is dedicated to serving consumers with competitive rates and outstanding service. Third Federal, an equal housing lender, has 22 full service branches in Northeast Ohio, eight lending offices in Central and Southern Ohio, and 17 full service branches throughout Florida. As of March 31, 2010, Third Federal assets totaled $10.8 billion.