MSD proud to be recognised as a family friendly workplace
May 18, 2022 11:00 am ET
MSD has today been named a Family Friendly Workplace in accordance with the National Work + Family Standards. Established by UNICEF Australia and Parents at Work, the Family Friendly Workplaces certification framework encourages employers to benchmark their own internal standards against nationally recognised best practices.
Prashant Nikam, Managing Director, MSD Australia and New Zealand says, “We respect and value our people. MSD team members contribute a significant part of their day to work, so we need both culture and considerations that are conducive to balancing life outside of work.”
“I believe we have a moral obligation to foster a culture of care, equality, and trust so our people can be their best at work and at home. When people feel supported in the workplace, not only do they benefit through better health and wellbeing, but their families and the broader community benefits too,” he added.
Lisa Onsley, Director of Human Resources, MSD Australia and New Zealand says, “Our policies go a long way in acknowledging the rising pressure families face when integrating work and caring responsibilities and opening the door for change. Family means different things for all of us and it’s important that we continue to foster a culture of inclusiveness.”
“It’s not only about working parents. It’s about creating a workplace that helps everyone be the best they can be,” she added.
Whilst 94% of employees at MSD agree they have the flexibility they need to manage their work and other commitments the company has a 2-year action plan that sets out how their family friendly workplace culture will be strengthened. This includes tailored approaches to meet individual needs, empowering managers to have powerful conversations about individual needs, and exploring engagement levers with their teams.
In March this year MSD was awarded Employer of Choice for Gender Equity for the seventh consecutive year – a clear recognition of their progressive parental leave policy as a key driver to achieving gender equal outcomes. The company continues to encourage all parents to take leave suitable for their needs and their growing families – inclusive of surrogacy, adoption and other caring arrangements.
