10 November 2023
Nurturing Diversity, Fostering Sustainability
In today’s increasingly challenging world, where everyone is asking for more social justice, establishing a more socially responsible workplace - a workplace where every voice matters, and every individual thrives - has become an imperative. Together, we are shaping a future that is not just economically viable and environmentally sound, but also profoundly equitable and socially just.
For this reason, together with the Group Management Committee, we have defined a bold ambition within our DEI strategy: achieving a 40% representation of women in our “strategic positions” by the end of 2024.
To sustain our commitment, we have leveraged on two innovative programs: the "Lioness Accelerator Program" targeting women senior managers and "Elevate" dedicated to women managers. These programs transcend traditional diversity training, prioritizing comprehensive personal and professional growth. The curriculum spans a range of essential competencies to navigate the organizational complexity, encompassing everything from refining executive presence and personal branding to political savvy and strategic thinking.
However, the heart of these programs lies in the structured mentorship and sponsorship initiatives supported by all the GMC members. It is in this mentoring role that I have personally experienced the powerful connection between leadership development and sustainability.
Through these programs, I have had the privilege to see how investing in the development of our female leaders fosters and nurtures an environment of innovation, creativity, and, importantly, a commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices. The stories of these remarkable women have shed light on how diversity in leadership can drive change and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Although my role as a mentor within the Lioness program has not been devoid of challenges and moments of uncertainties, this has been a mutual personal and professional journey of growth, recognizing the pivotal role of diversity in enhancing leadership. The mentorship relationship has triggered a self-reflection process that has reaffirmed the vital role of diverse perspectives: the uniqueness of each individual, their varied approaches and experiences, has once more demonstrated that diversity is a key ingredient of driving sustainable innovation. It has been for me a great opportunity to learn and grow.
In conclusion, Generali's commitment to gender equality and diversity is not just a corporate objective; it is a profoundly personal journey for every person in the organization. My role as a mentor in the Lioness program has provided a unique perspective on how diversity and sustainability are intertwined. It has confirmed that innovation and sustainability thrive in an inclusive environment where diverse voices and perspectives are valued, cherished, and allowed to flourish.
Read the article in original language
Nurturing Diversity, Fostering Sustainability
In the wide field of corporate responsibility, it may not be widely recognized that the 'S' in ESG embodies a commitment to social factors, where I believe the essence of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) thrives. Within this context, gender equality stands as a fundamental pillar of social sustainability. I firmly believe that gender equality embodies our commitment to a just and inclusive future.
In today’s increasingly challenging world, where everyone is asking for more social justice, establishing a more socially responsible workplace - a workplace where every voice matters, and every individual thrives - has become an imperative. Together, we are shaping a future that is not just economically viable and environmentally sound, but also profoundly equitable and socially just.
For this reason, together with the Group Management Committee, we have defined a bold ambition within our DEI strategy: achieving a 40% representation of women in our “strategic positions” by the end of 2024.
To sustain our commitment, we have leveraged on two innovative programs: the "Lioness Accelerator Program" targeting women senior managers and "Elevate" dedicated to women managers. These programs transcend traditional diversity training, prioritizing comprehensive personal and professional growth. The curriculum spans a range of essential competencies to navigate the organizational complexity, encompassing everything from refining executive presence and personal branding to political savvy and strategic thinking.
However, the heart of these programs lies in the structured mentorship and sponsorship initiatives supported by all the GMC members. It is in this mentoring role that I have personally experienced the powerful connection between leadership development and sustainability.
Through these programs, I have had the privilege to see how investing in the development of our female leaders fosters and nurtures an environment of innovation, creativity, and, importantly, a commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices. The stories of these remarkable women have shed light on how diversity in leadership can drive change and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Although my role as a mentor within the Lioness program has not been devoid of challenges and moments of uncertainties, this has been a mutual personal and professional journey of growth, recognizing the pivotal role of diversity in enhancing leadership. The mentorship relationship has triggered a self-reflection process that has reaffirmed the vital role of diverse perspectives: the uniqueness of each individual, their varied approaches and experiences, has once more demonstrated that diversity is a key ingredient of driving sustainable innovation. It has been for me a great opportunity to learn and grow.
In conclusion, Generali's commitment to gender equality and diversity is not just a corporate objective; it is a profoundly personal journey for every person in the organization. My role as a mentor in the Lioness program has provided a unique perspective on how diversity and sustainability are intertwined. It has confirmed that innovation and sustainability thrive in an inclusive environment where diverse voices and perspectives are valued, cherished, and allowed to flourish.