Creating an inclusive and diverse workplace is crucial for fostering a sense of value and respect among all individuals, which ultimately boosts innovation and success. Mondelēz International exemplifies this commitment by continuously promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) through various initiatives.
A historic move supporting LGBTQIA+
In 2023, Mondelēz International participated in its first Pride March alongside LGBTQIA+ colleagues and allies, adorned office spaces with rainbow murals, and supported a Pride event at Ateneo de Manila.
Internal initiatives
This year, the company is focusing on empowering employees to foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment internally through allyship. They are also part of external Pride events hosted by the American and European Chambers of Commerce in the Philippines, highlighting their DEI efforts. Additionally, they provide diversity training and support LGBTQIA+ and women-led suppliers through their Supplier Diversity Program.
Leadership in LGBTQIA+ representation
Mondelēz International proudly represents the LGBTQIA+ community through corporate communications, hiring practices, and employee benefits.
Global initiatives
Since 2021, globally Mondelēz International has invested significantly in a multi-year education program to enhance cultural competence, including Unconscious Bias training for all employees. The company aims for all global units to support underrepresented communities and spend US$1 billion with minority- and women-owned businesses by 2024.
Local impact in Southeast Asia
In Southeast Asia, MondelÄ“z International has been a pioneer in promoting DEI, including establishing gender-neutral restrooms to create safe spaces for all employees and visitors. Shine Rodriguez, Talent Acquisition team lead for Southeast Asia at MondelÄ“z International, emphasized, “We are proud to be the first country in our Southeast Asian business unit to have a gender-neutral restroom, reflecting our goal of providing a safe space for our people and guests.”
Supporting gender rights
Their workplace policy guarantees three fundamental gender rights: the use of preferred names, freedom in dress to reflect identity, and access to safe spaces. Rodriguez emphasized, “Our workplace policy outlines three basic gender rights: the right to a preferred name, the right to dress to reflect identity, and the right to safe spaces.”
Inclusive policies, benefits
They offer gender-neutral parental leave and healthcare benefits for same-sex partners, regardless of birth method. Mondelēz International is also a proud member of the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP).
Advocacy and partnership
Mondelēz International uses its platform to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and equality, partnering with organizations like University of the Philippines Babaylan and Ateneo SOGIE.
Building allyship
Recognizing the importance of allyship, MondelÄ“z International encourages all employees to actively promote inclusion and report discrimination without fear of retaliation. Rodriguez highlighted, “At MondelÄ“z International, we aim to develop a sense of allyship among employees, regardless of gender, creating a community where everyone values all gender identities and orientations.”
DEI Council and education
The Southeast Asia DEI Council oversees policies for underrepresented employee groups and provides learning resources through the DEI Hub.
Global engagement
In June 2024, Mondelēz International will sponsor and speak at external Pride events, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to DEI.
Recognition and growth
Recently, Mondelēz International Southeast Asia received the gold award for DEI strategy, highlighting their inclusive policies.
Empowering suppliers
Their Supplier Diversity Program supports women and LGBTQIA+ owned businesses through learning sessions and inclusion in company activities.
Year-round commitment
Mondelēz International celebrates Pride beyond June, emphasizing their dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all employees.
