QBE Europe develops new Inclusion of Diversity Strategy

Authored by QBE Inclusion Specialist Shenara Jarrett

QBE Europe has developed a new Inclusion of Diversity Strategy aimed at creating a more diverse workforce, inclusive workplace and connected marketplace by 2023.

At QBE, we know that diversity of thought, background and experience is essential for success. We know that it’s not just what we do that matters, it’s how we do it that makes the difference to our people and our customers.  Whilst we have made positive steps towards creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce, we know there is still more work that needs to be done.

To make our vision of a truly inclusive company a reality, we have developed a new Inclusion of Diversity strategy which aims to keep us focused and holds us to account.

Our JustBe@QBE campaign is one of the ways we are bringing our strategy to life by inviting everyone to just be.  We have intentionally evolved our language to Inclusion of Diversity as we want to create a workplace culture where all our people, in all the ways we are different, feel included. We know that this will in turn spark creativity, drive innovation, help us attract and hold onto talented people and deliver the best outcomes for our customers.

To watch our short video, which features some of our people, bring our JustBe@QBE vision to life, CLICK HERE

Our strategy is aligned to three core pillars: a diverse workforce, an inclusive workforce, and a more connected marketplace.

Diverse workforce

Over the next three years, we will maximize opportunities to attract, develop and retain diverse talent. Women currently make up 31.7% of our leadership roles at QBE, and ethnic minorities make up 10.6%. By the end of 2025, we aim to have women make up 40% of our leadership roles as well as increase the ethnic diversity of our leadership. 

To create a more diverse workplace, we will:

• Carry out an audit of processes and practices across the employee life cycle to reduce opportunities for systemic bias
• Refine and extend the delivery of a Schools Partnership Programme for ethnic minority students
• Review and enhance diversity data capture to inform targeted actions

Inclusive workplace

We believe that everyone should feel included at work; therefore, we will build inclusive capabilities, listen to our people, and support flexibility and wellbeing. With Covid-19 changing the way we work forever we want to empower all employees to prioritise their wellbeing and what matters to them.

To create a more inclusive workplace we will:

• Further embed and measure future ways of working to ensure that Flex@QBE, our new hybrid working approach, has a positive impact for our people and business
• Continue to modernize our wellbeing offering that focusses on proactive and preventative wellbeing assistance
• Continue to embed a safety to speak up culture  

Connected Marketplace 

We aim to work collaboratively with other organisations to drive positive societal change around diversity and inclusion within the Insurance industry. We will also encourage a diverse supply chain and endeavour to support and enhance equitable access for our diverse customer base.

To create a more connected marketplace, we will:

• Continue to proactively influence and shape market practices through collaboration opportunities
• Regularly consult on ways to accelerate the pace of change across the industry
• Review how we are showing up for our customers in our I&D activities

QBE Networks

As well as the activities mentioned, we will continue to support our 5 employee-led network groups, who’s objective is to raise awareness, educate, celebrate, and challenge the way we do things. 

QBE Pride - Our network for LGBTQ+ employees and their allies. Providing an open and supportive space to share information and materials about LGBTQ+ inclusion.

QBE Workability - Our network which supports, celebrates, and raises awareness of people who are directly or indirectly impacted by disability.

QBE Open Mind - Our network dedicated to challenging the stigma around mental health and promoting wellbeing.

QBE Mix - Our network dedicated to celebrating, educating, and raising awareness on ethnic diversity.

QBE Circle - Our network focused on breaking down gender biases and stereotypes.

We’re determined to accelerate positive change within QBE. We all own this, and together we’ll drive the change we want to see.

For more information on our networks CLICK HERE