FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
Wates Group has been named one of the Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality 2023, and has also been recognised by Women Into Construction.
Now in its 13th year with Business in the Community (BITC), The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality is the UK’s most high profile and well-established listing of employers taking action and leading the way to strive for workplace equality. This year was the most competitive yet, with a record number of applications received.
Wates’ work helping to address the gender imbalance and change the face of the built environment industry has also been recognised by Women Into Construction, who have awarded the Group their Opening Up Opportunities for Female Talent Award 2023.
While progress has been made, gender inequalities remain prevalent in UK workplaces, especially in times of economic disruption such as the aftermath of the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis.
As a leading family-owned building, development and property services business, Wates is a key player in one of the UK’s least diverse industries. Committed to creating a fair place to work, the company offers industry-leading family leave, flexible working policies including mentoring circles and reverse mentoring schemes.
The company also holds an annual Inclusion Month each September, during which all employees have opportunities to learn, and participate in, activities promoting greater inclusion. Wates has also established pioneering relationships with partners like Women into Construction, STEM Returners and STEM Women to create pathways into construction for women in different life stages.
Eoghan O’Lionaird, Chief Executive, Wates Group, said: “It’s our people who make us successful and we are committed to building a fair place to work where everyone can thrive. We strive to ensure that we hire fairly, we pay fairly, and that all our colleagues are treated fairly.
“To be listed as one of the top 50 employers for gender equality is a testament to this ongoing effort. We know that we still have much more to do to make our company and the wider built environment industry fair and equitable and we will continue to lead the way.”
Charlotte Woodworth, Gender Equality Director at Business in the Community added: “Whilst companies such as Wates are doing a brilliant job at reducing gender inequalities in the workplace, it is evident that there is far more work to be done. There are still too many employees who face barriers in the workplace, from pay gaps to caring responsibilities. The cost-of-living crisis, following the pandemic has made these inequalities even more noticeable.”
