Inspiring innovation through diversity and inclusion
We recognize the importance of embedding a culture of inclusion and belonging at every level of our company
January 25, 2024
An inclusive workplace inspires innovation and is fundamental to our company’s success. Having an environment composed of people with different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences also helps us better understand the unique needs of the customers, health care providers and patients we serve.
“With inclusion as a foundation, we’re able to ignite the spark of creativity that leads to innovation and extraordinary outcomes.”
- Nicole Stovall
Vice president, Global Diversity & Inclusion Center of Excellence
Below are some of the ways we celebrate our culture of empowerment, engagement and belonging:
01.
Supporting a disability-inclusive workforce
At our company, everyone should feel empowered to help deliver on our purpose of using the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. This includes our colleagues who live with disabilities.
Our Global Disability Inclusion Strategy Council recognizes and values the importance of a disability-inclusive workforce and offers resources to ensure people with disabilities — including physical, neurological, mental, rare or any other forms of disabilities — are included and prepared to succeed in all areas of our business.
Key programs and partnerships include:
- capAbility in Action, a joint program launched with Accenture and run in partnership with workforce solutions company Rangam to attract, recruit and retain neurodivergent talent.
- Valuable 500, a global partnership of 500 companies committed to accelerating disability inclusion through best practices such as digitally accessible technology, mental health awareness and more.
02.
Building a pipeline of the best talent
With our Skills-First approach to hiring, we’re shifting the ways we attract, develop and advance talent. For appropriate roles, this new approach increases the focus on skills instead of a four-year degree.
Key partners in our efforts include:
- OneTen, a coalition of leading companies driving a Skills-First movement to unlock career opportunities for talent without four-year degrees.
- Year Up, a nonprofit that offers economically disadvantaged youth six months of training followed by a six-month corporate internship.
- Hiring Our Heroes, an organization that connects the military community to civilian employers and helps upskill service members in preparation for post-service careers.
03.
Economic inclusion and small business development
Economic inclusion creates a competitive advantage for our company and positively impacts the global community.
We create economic opportunities by procuring products and services from an array of small businesses ranging in different locations, ownership and specialties.
Key initiatives include:
- Our Economic Inclusion Virtual Lab offers monthly opportunities for small business owners to engage with our supply chain professionals, prime suppliers and advocacy organizations.
04.
Celebrating global diversity and inclusion
Since 2015, we’ve celebrated Global Diversity & Inclusion Experience Month in September to foster meaningful discussions and learning around diversity and inclusion, while highlighting our inclusive culture.
This monthlong celebration builds capabilities among our workforce and creates a platform for employees to speak up about their experiences.
05.
Employee business resource groups (EBRGs)
With more than 25,000 members across 10 groups, our EBRGs play a critical role in driving an inclusive culture and supporting employee career growth. Each EBRG is open to all employees, and they reflect the communities in which we live and serve.
