Fortescue Metals : recognised among the best companies globally for women to advance

Jul 14, 2020

Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) is proud to be rated among the best companies internationally for supporting the development of female leaders, after it was included in the 2020 Best Companies for Women to Advance List.

The List is an initiative of Parity.org, recognising companies that have benefits, policies and programs that are particularly beneficial for women to advance in the workplace. Thirty-four companies across the globe made the 2020 List, with Fortescue the only Australian-based company to be featured.

In 2019, Fortescue was one of the first companies in Australia to sign Parity.org's ParityPledge to bring gender equality to the highest levels of business, making a public commitment to interview at least one qualified woman for every executive position.

Fortescue Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Gaines said, 'Fortescue has long advocated the benefits of diversity and research continues to reinforce our view and experience that building a diverse workplace is not just the right thing to do, it's the smart thing to do.

'In fact, I believe our inclusive, diverse culture has strongly influenced Fortescue's industry leading performance, and has contributed to a 54 per cent increase in our market capitalisation to A$42.6 billion over the 12 months to 30 June 2020.

'Setting the tone for equality in the workplace starts from the top and I am proud that Fortescue continues to lead from the front with 44 per cent female representation on our Board of Directors and a diverse management team with women representing 26 per cent of our senior leadership.

'This is why we remain focused on building a pipeline of aspiring female leaders through a range of practical initiatives including paid parental leave, flexible working arrangements and leadership development programs,' Ms Gaines said.

Parity.org Founder and Chief Executive Officer Cathrin Stickney said, 'We are thrilled to announce the Best Companies for Women to Advance List 2020. These companies are examples of commitment and intentionality in levelling the playing field for women and paving the way for them to succeed and advance their careers, making gender parity at the top levels possible.'

Background

Parity.org is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to closing the gender gap at the highest ranks of business leadership. The 2020 Best Companies for Women to Advance List is based on a cumulative rating across recruitment, benefits, executive preparation, measurement, and representation. For more information on the List and the ParityPledge, visit http://www.parity.org.