In a significant acknowledgment of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. (HAC) has been distinguished as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers for 2024.
This prestigious designation, facilitated by Mediacorp and detailed in the Globe and Mail, comes after a detailed evaluation of the company’s efforts towards cultivating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace.
At the core of Hyundai Canada’s ethos is a strategy aimed at fostering a sustainable and meaningful business atmosphere. This is achieved through various initiatives and programs that promote continuous learning and career advancement opportunities.
Kirk Merrett, the director of human resources at Hyundai Canada, emphasized the company’s commitment to inclusivity.
“To better serve our diverse customer base while fostering an inclusive organizational culture, we are always re-examining our hiring processes to help ensure our career development policies are equitable,” Merrett stated.
He added that Hyundai’s people-centric approach significantly influences all corporate decisions, and this accolade from Mediacorp highlights the concerted efforts of their leadership team in ensuring comprehensive consideration of team members at all levels.
Hyundai Canada has made notable strides in addressing representation within its workforce, particularly in mitigating the gender gap prevalent in the automotive sector. The company has launched initiatives such as the Women in Leadership pipeline, which aims at enhancing the retention and development opportunities for female employees.
Progress is evident as there has been an 8 per cent increase in female hires over the last three years, with women making up 39 per cent of the workforce and 50 per cent of National Managers at Hyundai Canada. Furthermore, the organization has improved its hiring of self-identifying Black individuals by 5 per cent since 2021.
The company also prioritizes creating a supportive environment for caregivers by offering updated leave policies, including 10 “Wellness Days,” flexible Fridays, and comprehensive maternity and paternity leave top-up programs. These policies are designed to accommodate various caregiving needs and responsibilities.
Hyundai Canada’s commitment extends beyond its internal operations to the broader community through partnerships and initiatives aimed at increasing inclusivity within the automotive industry. Collaborations with educational institutions and organizations like the Onyx Initiative demonstrate Hyundai’s dedication to creating more inclusive career pathways and supporting underrepresented communities.
As Hyundai Auto Canada continues to implement its people-first strategy, it solidifies its position as a leader in fostering a collaborative and supportive industry culture where everyone can thrive.