For the second time in three years, Deloitte US has been ranked first on Businessweek magazine's '50 Best Places to Launch a Career'.

After being at the top of the list in 2007, Deloitte US, the professional services firm, has reclaimed its prize as the crown jewel of organisations for students and career services directors. Businessweek recognised Deloitte US's rich benefits, generous time-off policy, substantially higher pay for entry-level hires, and extensive training programmes.

Paul Mercieca, Deloitte Malta managing partner, said last week that the local firm was making great strides to emulate its US colleagues. The Deloitte Pathway programme will be launched at the Careers Convention at the University of Malta this week.

"Being ranked number one is an especially great honour," said Cathy Benko, chief talent officer, Deloitte LLP. "The ranking both recognises our ability to attract top talent and tells a compelling story about how the Deloitte workplace is experienced by our young professionals."

Businessweek's analysis gathers feedback from students, college career counsellors, and employees to reveal which companies offer the biggest advantages for interns and entry-level employees in the areas of training, compensation and benefits, and career development programmes.