Danone Canada has received the Platinum-level Parity Certification from Women in Governance, the highest recognition for gender equality in Canadian workplaces. The food and beverage company achieved the milestone after progressing from Silver certification in 2023 to Gold in 2024.
The certification program, launched by Women in Governance in 2017, represents the first comprehensive gender parity assessment system in North America. Organizations undergo evaluation across leadership representation, workplace culture, policies and measurable outcomes.
“The Platinum-level Parity Certification from Women in Governance is a powerful recognition of our ongoing commitment to gender equality and inclusion,” said Frederic Guichard, President at Danone Canada. “Having strong female leaders around the table is essential to carrying out our mission of bringing health through food to Canadians.”
Building systematic change
Danone Canada implemented several initiatives to reach the Platinum level, including internal accountability frameworks and leadership development programs specifically designed for women. The company also supports an employee resource group focused on female talent development and has introduced measures to eliminate workplace bias.
The certification process evaluates companies on concrete metrics rather than stated intentions, according to Women in Governance founder Caroline Codsi.
“Parity cannot be simply declared — it must be built with determination, commitment, and courage,” said Codsi. “At Danone Canada, gender equality is deeply embedded in the company’s culture.”
Industry recognition
Danone has earned recognition beyond the Canadian market for its diversity efforts. The company appears on the Financial Times-Statista 2025 list of Diversity Leaders and was named among Forbes’ 2024 World’s Top Companies for Women.
The Toronto and Boucherville-based company operates as Canada’s largest consumer-facing certified B Corporation. Its brand portfolio includes Activia, Oikos, Silk, Two Good, International Delight and evian.
Women in Governance operates as a non-profit organization supporting women’s career advancement and helping organizations close gender gaps in their workplaces. The group offers certification programs, training and mentoring alongside its assessment services.
