The other 364

Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity. Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to drive gender parity. Inclusion means all IWD action is valid.

Today is International Women’s Day (#IWD23). I am not a huge fan of ‘Days’. I always wonder why we are we singling out one day out of 365 to support or acknowledge the contribution of half the world’s population. But the cause is fundamentally important and it is valuable nudge to use the day to reflect on my own contribution.

As Chief Executive of a business in which almost three quarters of our partners identify as female it is a continuous ongoing daily process to make sure that all of our partners are valued and supported equally.

I am proud of recent progress at The Nursery to reduce some of the inherent disadvantages women have in the workplace. Not least in our family policy that offers best in class support throughout the entire parenthood journey, from struggles with fertility right through to a phased return to work for mothers and fathers. As well as our new menopause policy which (contrary to government advice) acknowledges that partners are eligible for Sickness Absence, paid sick leave and reasonable workplace adjustments if they feel unwell or unfit for work due to menopausal symptoms. Both of these policies enable us to keep our best talent in the business and ensure everyone is fully supported regardless of their parental or hormonal status.

Our ‘zero tolerance’ for any discriminatory behaviour or language is tested in our annual partner survey and we can happily report 97% of partners believe the company actively supports women, 85% say that partners have the same opportunity to progress regardless of gender.

So that’s good. But there is so much more to do.

Our Gender Pay Gap is improving, (our last five senior recruits have all been women) but is likely to remain in the red until we address historic gender imbalance at senior management level.

So by all means let’s use today as a reminder of unfinished business – but the hard work continues for the other 364 days.

David Alterman - Chief Executive Officer