Dame Susan Devoy Launches Diversity Programme

21 November 2014

Dame Susan Devoy Launches Diversity Programme

The importance of recognising the fast changing population and the impact of this upon the workforce in New Zealand companies has been recognised by a new programme being offered by NZIM in 2015. At the recent launch of the programme the Race Relations Commissioner, Dame Susan Devoy, acknowledged this commitment from NZIM and challenged those attending to recognise that company policies and values needed to address the many layers of diversity that these changes bring.

Dame Susan outlined the overwhelming evidence that organisations only operate at full effectiveness when they are as diverse as their customer base and she shared some hard hitting stories about the situation that faces many employees from ethnic backgrounds which are not European. She encouraged the audience to have the conversations which would enable differences to be discussed and thereby create positive opportunities in the workforce for all – employees and customers.

Economic growth and harmonious workplace relationships are key to a high performing, successful company and Dame Susan applauded the efforts being made by some companies to recognise diversity but suggested there is a considerable journey ahead. The new course will enable participants to consider the diverse talents of their teams while also learning more about the different ‘ways of doing’ of their employees.

The new Prime Minister’s Diversity Leader Award in the 2014 Deloitte Top 2000 further illustrates the importance and significance being given to this aspect of company performance.

ENDS

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