Diageo is offering women and men an equal 52 weeks' parental leave with the first 26-weeks fully paid for UK employees. The ambitious move is part of Diageo's work to support gender equality and to create a fully inclusive and diverse workforce.
Removing barriers to career progression
Parents at Diageo will enjoy the same benefits and bonuses regardless of gender, sexual orientation or whether they become parents biologically, via surrogacy or adoption.
This decision is part of Diageo's aim to remove barriers to career progression and retain and nurture talent.
“True gender equality in the working world requires fundamental changes to a broad range of working practices, including a shake-up of the policies and cultural norms around parental leave," says Mairéad Nayager, Chief HR Officer for Diageo.
"[This] announcement is about matching ambition with action and supporting all of our colleagues, regardless of gender, to experience the joy of raising a young family, while continuing to thrive at work.”
Actively and equally supporting parents
James Ashall, CEO of Movement to Work, has shared his experience of parental leave and how it helped his family as his wife was unable to take time away from running her own business.
James was able to enjoy time off in order to care for his two young children, whilst developing his skills and his ability to work with people.
"It can so significantly impact your choice if your employer is actively supporting people into parental leave," explains James.
Empowering women to achieve their potential
Diageo's new policy also increases support for parents as they come back to work such as the option of keeping in touch days, parental coaching, flexible working policies and access to free independent counselling.
“I’m delighted to see Diageo making this move. Shared parental leave gives both mums and dads the chance to spend quality time with their child in the important first months of their life, creating a bond that will last a lifetime. Employers can reap the benefits too. We know that flexibility in work is proven to create happier, more loyal and more productive workforces," says Penny Mordaunt, UK Minister for Women and Equalities.
Work for a fully-supportive employer
Women's work is valued at Diageo and they thrive with the support and opportunities given to them in the company. As one of the leading alcohol beverages companies, Diageo offers a wide range of opportunities to talented professionals.
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Disclosure: Where Women Work researches and publishes insightful evidence about how its paid member organizations support women's equality.