At Optus, we’re always looking for ways to reimagine the future. Whether it’s helping enterprises reinvent their business communications for the digital age or solving complex infrastructure challenges for remote-site operations, we’re committed to furthering our vision and doing things a little differently. But we aren’t stopping there. We’re also committed to reimagining a future where gender equality isn’t just celebrated—it’s the norm.
In the U.S., women make up almost half of the workforce, yet only 31% of IT employees are women. And when we look at leadership in the industry, the number falls to just 22%. However, there have been some positive outcomes in gender parity over the past several years. FTSE and Fortune 500 boards have aimed to ensure 30% of leadership roles are held by women, which they are well on the way to achieving. It’s also predicted that the number of women C-level IT positions will climb to 33% this year—an 18% increase over previous years.
Still, it’s up to us to do more, which is why Optus is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and diverse environment where all employees feel fully engaged and supported. We are committed to:
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- Promoting inclusion and equality by creating a work environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect and where individual differences are valued.
- Promoting equal opportunity in all aspects of employment including compensation and leadership opportunities.
Here at Optus, our workforce is comprised of 43% women, and in contrast to other IT companies, when you look at our leadership team, that number jumps up to 50%. Gender parity and inclusion are closely linked to our values and culture, which focus on respect for employees, customers, and our community. We understand that a diverse workforce helps us effectively meet diverse market and customer needs.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’d like to recognize and thank all of the women who make Optus a great company. In addition to honoring these women, I would like to personally honor the many strong women in my life who have shaped me into the man I am today. At the top of that list is my mother, Eva Duckworth.
