Mercer Australia named top employer for gender equality
The Australian arm of Mercer has been lauded as an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (EOCGE), joining a select number of 100 or so businesses already certified to carry the title.
Criteria for being named an EOCGE aligns with objectives under Australia’s Workplace Gender Equality Act of 2012, and include metrics such as leadership, learning & development, gender remuneration, flexible working arrangements as well as other similarly considerate policies.
The EOCGE title also takes into account measures to prevent sexual harassment and discrimination, and examines organisational goals when it comes to improving gender parity. A number of major Australian businesses have previously received the EOCGE citation by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA), and Mercer now joins this elite group.
According to Libby Lyons, Director of the WGEA, Mercer’s achievement is all the more special in light of the fact that the eligibility criteria were made extra stringent this year, with sharper focus on accountability, goals, and internal reporting processes, she said. “I would like to congratulate Mercer for the extra effort and commitment it has taken to meet these additional rigorous requirements.”
Gaye Morris, People & Culture Leader at Mercer, expressed – on behalf of the consulting firm – his delight at having received the acknowledgment. “Embracing our differences is core to our culture and values at Mercer. Our leadership drives Mercer’s gender equality strategy, and it’s our people who are making our aspirations come to life – thank you all.”
Outgoing Mercer Australia CEO Ben Walsh (he will be succeeded by David Bryant) added, “I'm incredibly proud of the work we're doing to progress gender equality at Mercer. This milestone is a testament to the journey we’re on and demonstrates we're moving in the right direction. But we won't stop now. Mercer will continue to drive a culture of inclusion and diversity where colleagues can be happy and successful because of who they are, not in spite of it.”
The award comes at a time when debates around gender equality in the workplace are dominating media channels, with many looking for ways to break down current structural inequality. A Bain & Company report from last year surveyed businesses in Australia to look for solutions, revealing that more male engagement in gender equality efforts is a crucial factor in realising progress.
Aside from the commitment to values of equality, Australian businesses also have an economic incentive to better promote gender parity. KPMG reported last year that closing the gender gap in Australia could translate into billions when it comes to economic benefits for the country.
Globally, Mercer generates revenues of over $5 billion. The company is part of Marsh & McLennan.
