Kering, a leading luxury group employing nearly 35,000 individuals globally, has made a groundbreaking decision by introducing a revolutionary parental leave policy for all employees. Effective January 1, 2020, male employees will now be entitled to a fully paid 14-week parental leave, equivalent to the leave granted to their female counterparts. This policy encompasses both childbirth and adoption, without any specific personal circumstances being taken into account.
Having previously offered a 14-week leave to female employees for maternity or adoption, and a five-week leave for paternal or partner leave since 2017, Kering’s move to extend this benefit to all employees marks a significant stride towards gender equality within the organization. By providing equal leave entitlements to men and women, Kering aims to foster a more balanced work-life dynamic and ensure equal treatment for all employees.
Béatrice Lazat, the company’s HR Director, has stressed the importance of aligning parental leave benefits to enable employees to allocate equal time to their families. This progressive decision not only benefits employees but also serves to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the workplace.
It is imperative that parental leave is utilized within six months of a child’s birth or adoption. With a substantial 60% of its workforce being women, Kering has committed to achieving gender balance and equal pay across all levels of the organization by 2025. The company boasted a revenue of €13.7 billion in 2018, underscoring its sustained growth and success in the luxury market.
In essence, Kering’s latest parental leave policy embodies its dedication to diversity, equality, and striking a harmonious work-life equilibrium. By providing equitable opportunities and assistance to its employees, Kering is exemplifying a forward-thinking approach within the industry and working towards fostering a more inclusive organizational culture.
To learn more about Kering and its initiatives, visit their official website here. For more information on parental leave policies and gender equality in the workplace, visit this resource here.
