An enhanced focus on inclusion with specific goals aligns with our core values and will set us up for continued progress on diversity and inclusion. These goals will be supported by training and engagement programs such as inclusive leadership training as well as establishing a D&I Leadership Council composed of champions from each operating company.
Further, we will consider the results of the employee engagement survey and inclusiveness data to develop targeted action plans focused on enhancing inclusion across our diverse geographies and businesses.
We continue to support the employee resource groups that many of our operating companies host. These groups promote a work environment that welcomes diversity, promotes inclusion and engagement and furthers our talent development strategy. These groups allow for collaboration and serve as an open forum for networking, professional development, and mentoring.
We are committed to maintaining a work environment that is professional, inclusive, and free from discrimination and harassment. That includes ensuring equal opportunity in our hiring practices and treatment of employees regardless of their race, color, religion, disability, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, age, or other characteristic protected by law. Our Code of Business Conduct & Ethics lays out guidelines to maintain a fair and safe workplace in our Ethical Employment Practices, Harassment, and Non-discrimination Policy and does not tolerate harassment or any behavior that creates an intimidating, offensive, or demeaning environment related to a person’s protected characteristics. To help educate our workforce on the benefits of an inclusive environment, and drive awareness, we have invested in training across the organization on topics such as unconscious bias and harassment prevention.
We strive to build teams that fully leverage individuals’ capabilities and actively value the diverse perspectives and backgrounds of all our colleagues. Two of our most critical leadership competencies are “building and managing collaborative relationships” and “attracting, developing and retaining talent”. Developing leaders who model these competencies in their daily behavior by demonstrating the value of diversity is critical to our success.