Microsoft has been named as the best place to work in Europe for the third year in a row.

The firm won the Best Large Workplace in Europe 2010 award at a gala ceremony at the Great Place to Work Institute's European conference in Madrid.

Microsoft caught the eye of the judges because it had made significant investment in office environments, flexible benefits and technology to empower and enable its staff.

Jean-Philippe Courtois, president of Microsoft International, said: “Investing in people and creating a work environment that utilises the latest technology has enabled staff to transform the way they work and interact with colleagues, delivering a strong work-life balance and a highly motivated and empowered team.

"This past year has been challenging for businesses and employees in all industries, and Microsoft is no different. That said, we continue to be optimistic especially as our industry transitions toward what we believe is the next big era in technology.”

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