Assurant has been named one of The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality 2024, highlighting its commitment to fostering gender equality in the workplace. This prestigious list, curated by Business in the Community (BITC), is recognised as the UK’s leading benchmark for employers dedicated to tackling gender inequalities within their organisations.
For the past 14 years, BITC’s Gender Equality work has shone a light on employers who are not just talking about gender equality but actively implementing strategies to make it a reality. The Times Top 50 includes organisations that have adopted robust action plans addressing various gender-related disparities, including pay gaps, progression opportunities, and the support of flexible working arrangements.
Despite progress, gender inequalities remain a significant challenge in UK workplaces, particularly in the face of economic disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. These pressures have exacerbated existing inequalities, making the work of these top 50 employers more crucial than ever.
Assurant’s recognition in this year’s list underscores its proactive efforts to create an equitable workplace. The company has been assessed on its comprehensive approach to removing barriers to gender equality, which includes initiatives around flexible working, family-friendly policies, and ensuring equal opportunities for progression and reward.
Christian Formby, President of Assurant Europe, expressed his pride in the company’s achievement, stating, “We are thrilled to be named one of The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to creating a fair and inclusive workplace for all our employees. We continue to strive for gender equality and to make it a priority in all aspects of our business.”
Charlotte Woodworth, Gender Equality Director at BITC, praised the efforts of the organisations on the list but emphasised that the work is far from over. “Being named as a Times Top 50 employer for gender equality demonstrates Assurant’s commitment to driving a more equitable, inclusive world,” she said. “However, there is still much to do. From addressing pay disparities to better supporting those with caring responsibilities, many employees, particularly women, still face barriers to employment and career progression. It is every employer’s responsibility to play their part in reducing and removing these inequalities, and research shows this isn’t just the right thing to do—it also makes business sense.”
Assurant’s inclusion in the Top 50 serves as a significant milestone in its ongoing journey towards a more gender-equal workplace.