VolkerWessels UK celebrates Investors in Diversity Accreditation and permanent appointment of Head of EDI
It is appropriate that during National Inclusion Week, VolkerWessels UK is marking the conditional achievement of the National Centre for Diversity’s Investors in Diversity stage two award. This accreditation follows the permanent appointment of Hollie Woodard as the group’s Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and the development of its ‘Building Inclusion Together’ strategy, which sets out the company’s approach and commitment to a working environment which is inclusive and enriched by its diversity and equality of opportunity.
Investors in Diversity is recognised as providing a methodology for improving Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) practices in the workplace. On confirming the company’s achievement, the assessor said there was a ‘tangible commitment to EDI and to Investors in Diversity within the organisation’, and that VolkerWessels UK demonstrated ‘professional courage, an admirable transparency and a steely determination’ in its approach.
Hollie Woodard said: “We believe that ‘Building Inclusion Together’ and our dedicated approach to EDI will have a positive impact on every aspect of our work, and on our employees, our clients and the communities where we work.
“Our programme includes training, and the appointment of EDI champions across the business, alongside a schedule of regular communication and activities. We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and determination of our teams, who are fully engaged with our mission to support all of our stakeholders and become ambassadors in our approach to equality, diversity and inclusion.”
Naomi Connell, Chief Financial Officer and executive sponsor of EDI at VolkerWessels UK added: “This achievement demonstrates the commitment of our people to helping create and maintain the highest standards of equality, diversity and inclusion.
“We are working to ensure that we are mindful of EDI in every aspect of our activities, so that we foster an environment which is welcoming to all. This not only creates an environment where innovation and ideas are encouraged and fostered, but also helps us play our part in future proofing our industry, by advocating construction to those who typically may not have considered it as a career option.”
National Inclusion week is created and run by Inclusive Employers, and aims to raise awareness of inclusion in the workplace. VolkerWessels UK is encouraging employees to mark the week, alongside the company’s Investors in Diversity achievement.