VFS Global, a leading outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions, has marked a significant milestone in its commitment to gender diversity and inclusion. According to its Integrated Sustainability Report 2023, the firm has achieved a remarkable balance in its workforce composition, both globally and locally in Kenya.
Global Workforce Expansion and Gender Balance
In 2023, VFS Global expanded its global workforce by an impressive 24%, increasing its total number of employees from 8,883 in 2022 to 10,976. This expansion reflects the company’s dedication to providing job opportunities across various regions and achieving a balanced representation within the organization. Notably, more than half of this expanded workforce comprises women, underscoring VFS Global’s commitment to gender diversity.
The company’s global workforce now boasts a balanced gender ratio, with 54% women and 46% men. This achievement is a testament to VFS Global’s efforts in fostering an inclusive work environment. In addition, 29% of senior and middle management roles globally are occupied by women, highlighting the company’s focus on gender diversity at all organizational levels.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
VFS Global’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is evident in its recruitment and management practices. The firm has implemented a mandatory policy requiring People Managers to interview suitable women candidates for middle and senior management roles. This initiative aims to prioritize the onboarding of women candidates, further promoting gender diversity within the organization.
The report also highlights that in 2023, VFS Global maintained a healthy gender diversity ratio of 29% at the management level. This figure reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to ensure women are well-represented in leadership positions, contributing to a more inclusive and balanced workforce.
Significant Growth in Employee Training
Alongside its focus on gender diversity, VFS Global has also made significant strides in employee development. The company reported a remarkable increase in employee training hours globally, totaling 338,023 hours in 2023. This represents an 86% increase over the previous year, demonstrating VFS Global’s commitment to investing in the professional growth and development of its employees.
The substantial rise in training hours indicates the company’s dedication to enhancing its workforce’s skills and capabilities, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of their roles.
Achievements in Kenya
In Kenya, VFS Global’s commitment to gender diversity is equally notable. The firm reports that half of its total workforce in Kenya, which comprises 76 employees, is made up of women. Carold Kotie, VFS Global Operations Manager for Kenya, expressed pride in the company’s gender diversity achievements. She emphasized that women share equal representation in the workforce, including in managing operations in Kenya.
Kotie also highlighted that the company has prioritized the professional growth and development of its employees in Kenya, aligning with its global strategy to foster an inclusive and supportive work environment.
Conclusion
VFS Global’s Integrated Sustainability Report 2023 showcases the company’s significant progress in building a gender-diverse and inclusive workforce. With a balanced global gender ratio, increased representation of women in management roles, and substantial growth in employee training, VFS Global is setting a benchmark for diversity and inclusion in the corporate world. The firm’s achievements in Kenya further underscore its commitment to gender equality and professional development, reflecting its dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable work environment across the globe.
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