Mitie made mighty by a woman at the top: Diversity pays rich dividends for outsourcing specialist

摘要

Purpose – This article's aim is to describe how strategic outsourcing and energy-services company Mitie Group plc is helping more women to reach senior executive posts. nnDesign/methodology/approach – The measures the company has taken are described as well as some of the results they have achieved. nnFindings – The article highlights measures including: a program to encourage women to return to work and develop their careers after taking maternity leave; a maternity-coaching program to help to retain senior female talent; flexible working hours and a flexible-leave system; home working and a compressed working-fortnight option; child-care vouchers; additional annual-leave purchase schemes; a diversity week; a mentoring program for female rising stars; and a twice-yearly employee forum at which gender achievements, progress and initiatives are discussed. nnPractical implications – It is explained that the Mitie chief executive, the first Asian woman to head a FTSE 250 company, has set up and remains involved in a mentoring circle for black, Asian and minority-ethnic women. nnSocial implications – The article points up the importance to society of ensuring that women enjoy equal opportunities in the workplace. nnOriginality/value – The article discusses a company that places huge importance on attracting and retaining female talent while delivering a supportive and inclusive environment for all its people.