Driving Diversity in the Energy and Utilities sector

Diversity and inclusion helps to build a sustainable workforce.

diversity and inclusion in utilities and energy

Diversity and inclusion are important in every industry, and the energy and utilities sector is no exception.

In 2023, energy and utilities companies are facing a rapidly changing landscape, with new technologies, shifting customer expectations, and increased pressure to meet sustainability goals. In order to navigate these changes and remain competitive, it is essential that organisations in the sector embrace diversity and inclusion in all aspects of their operations.

At Marsh RPF, we understand the importance of diversity and inclusion, and want to support our clients in evolving their D&I strategies to achieve their goals and objectives.

Here are just some of the benefits a well-structured D&I strategy can bring your business:

colourful inforgraphic of benefits of diversity and inclusion

Source: TalentLyft

Better decision making

One of the key reasons why diversity and inclusion is important in the energy and utilities sector is that it leads to better decision-making. A diverse workforce brings a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table. This helps organisations to identify and solve problems more effectively, and to develop innovative solutions that meet the needs of all customers.

A positive company culture = Innovation & Growth

A diverse and inclusive workplace helps to foster a positive company culture. When employees feel valued, respected, and included, they are more likely to be engaged, productive, and motivated. This, in turn, helps to drive innovation and growth within the company.

Attract and retain top talent

Promoting diversity and inclusion in the energy and utilities sector can be a way to attract and retain top talent. A welcoming, inclusive workplace is more likely to attract a diverse pool of job applicants, and retain employees from underrepresented groups. This helps energy and utilities companies to build a strong, skilled workforce that is well-suited to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Improve customer service

Another reason why diversity and inclusion is important in the sector is that it helps to improve customer service. A diverse workforce is better equipped to understand and meet the needs of a diverse customer base. This is especially important in the energy and utilities sector, where customers rely on the services provided by companies for their basic needs, such as electricity and water.

Remove the risk of reputational damage

Lastly, a diverse and inclusive workplace can help to mitigate the risk of reputational damage. In a world where consumers are increasingly conscious of the values and practices of the companies they do business with, it is important for energy and utilities companies to be seen as inclusive, responsible, and ethical. A diverse and inclusive workplace helps to demonstrate these values and can help to mitigate the risk of negative publicity or loss of customers.

How diverse is the Energy & Utilities sector today?

A report from Energy & Utility Skills shows that across the Energy & Utilities sector in the UK:

17% are Female (the UK average across other industries is 47%)
Just 5% are from ethnic minority backgrounds (significantly lower than the UK average of 12%)
20% are over 55 years of age (which is in line with the UK average)
12% have disabilities and additional needs (compared to the UK average of 15%)
9% are aged under 24 (the UK average is 12%)
London has the highest number of professionals from ethnic minority backgrounds (22%), whilst Scotland and Ireland have the lowest (<1%)

Source: Energy & Utility Skills

So, what's next?

It is clear that diversity and inclusion are critical for the success of energy and utilities companies in 2023 and beyond. However, creating a truly diverse and inclusive workplace is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing effort, commitment, and a willingness to embrace change.

We'd love to hear from thought-leaders, hiring managers, HR & talent professionals; to explore your organisation's D&I strategy, share insight, and discuss areas for improvement.

Together, we can create a more diverse and inclusive energy and utilities sector; one that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the future, and more sustainable, resilient, and successful for all.

Get in touch with the Marsh RPF team today!

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