In today’s rapidly evolving world, leadership has transcended traditional boundaries. Leaders are no longer just stewards of organisational success but also torchbearers of societal change. As the world changes, companies must evolve or risk extinction, and embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is key to this evolution. 

DEI matters more than ever, especially in times of crisis when diverse teams prove to be more resilient and adaptable. They bring varied perspectives that help navigate complex challenges and drive innovation. Inclusive practices ensure that all team members feel valued and supported, boosting morale and productivity. 

Equity ensures that the benefits of growth and success are shared by all, leading to a just and prosperous society.

DEI at Tesco: A Strategic Priority

For Tesco, DEI is a strategic priority because it aligns with our core values of treating people the way they want to be treated and creating a place where everybody is welcome. By fostering an inclusive workplace, Tesco harnesses the diverse perspectives and ideas of our colleagues, driving innovation and better decision-making. The CEO and senior leadership team visibly champion diversity and inclusion whilst setting bold ambitions on where we would like to be.

Mentoring and Sponsorship Programmes

Tesco has established active mentoring and sponsorship programs designed to support the professional growth and development of its colleagues. Through these initiatives, we pair colleagues with experienced mentors who provide guidance, share knowledge, and help mentees navigate their career paths. Sponsorship programs go a step further by having senior leaders advocate for their protégés, opening doors to new opportunities and facilitating career advancements.

These programs are integral to our commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. By investing in mentoring and sponsorship, Tesco not only empowers its workforce but also builds a pipeline of diverse and capable leaders for the future.

Embedding Inclusion in Everything We Do

Inclusivity starts with inclusive hiring. Inclusive job descriptions, active sourcing for diversity, and encouraging an inclusive approach to referrals are good starts. We are keen on fair employment practices, pay parity, strong anti-discrimination policies and being a disability-confident employer. 

Inclusive Insurance Policies

Our comprehensive policies and initiatives show our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. At Tesco Bengaluru, our inclusive approach begins with extensive insurance policies tailored to meet the diverse needs of our workforce. Recognising the importance of supporting colleagues through significant life changes, we proudly offer gender reassignment support, ensuring individuals undergoing transition receive the necessary care and respect that they deserve.

Acknowledging the evolving nature of family structures, our policies extend coverage to live-in partners and siblings. We are also committed to equality, providing coverage for same-gender partners and ensuring equal access to benefits for all colleagues. 

Furthermore, our fertility treatment coverage supports those on the journey to parenthood. We also offer robust support for specially-abled colleagues and their family members. These inclusive policies highlight our dedication to the well-being and equality of our workforce, reinforcing our commitment to creating a supportive environment for all.

Listen, Learn, Act

Periodic feedback through employee surveys helps us measure how inclusive we are and guides us to take the right steps to drive it in a positive direction. Colleague-driven groups focussing on empowering women, ally networks and our male allies encourage everyone to bring their whole selves to work while fostering well-being and psychological safety.

Celebrating Diversity Through Events and Initiatives

At Tesco Bengaluru, we actively celebrate inclusion through dedicated events and initiatives that reflect our commitment to diversity and equality. Each year, we honour Pride Month, International Men’s Day, and International Women’s Day with a plethora of activities and discussions. These events celebrate our diverse workforce and promote understanding and respect among colleagues.

During the Inclusion Week, we engage in workshops, panel discussions, and cultural celebrations to reinforce our inclusive values. Comprehensive inclusion training for all colleagues ensures that everyone is equipped with the knowledge and skills to foster a welcoming environment. 

Additionally, Disability Awareness Month allows us to focus on the contributions and needs of our specially-abled colleagues, ensuring they feel supported and valued. These celebrations and initiatives are more than just events; they are integral to our culture, underscoring our dedication to creating an inclusive and empowering workplace for everyone.

At Tesco Bengaluru, listening, learning, and acting are at the heart of our inclusive practices. Our comprehensive policies, celebratory events, and robust mentoring programs demonstrate our dedication to fostering an environment where everyone feels cherished. We believe that by embracing diversity and promoting equality, we can create a more innovative, dynamic, and successful workplace for all.

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