As I reflect on 2023, I am reminded that we can achieve more together than apart. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of RGA, a company that values the unique experiences and talents of our employees, thoughtfully lives its values, and prioritizes the needs of others.
RGA is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace that respects and embraces all. As a global company, we understand the value of celebrating the different backgrounds and experiences of our team members as they work to meet the needs of our clients serving diverse populations around the world.
In 2023, RGA leaders demonstrated their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by shaping and executing our corporate DEI strategy. RGA’s Global DEI Council, comprised of eight leaders from various regions, provided guidance to RGA’s Regional Diversity and Inclusion Councils (RDICs) and championed DEI across the organization.
Employees worldwide showcased their experiences, skills, and dedication to fostering a welcoming workplace by participating in internal and external DEI events, volunteering in their local communities, engaging in meaningful conversations, and sharing their cultural backgrounds.
Industry Recognition
RGA’s Board of Directors was selected by the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) as the winner of the 2023 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award in the Public Company—Mid Cap category.
NACD is the authority on boardroom practices, representing more than 23,000 corporate board members. Each year, they recognize boards that have improved their governance and created long-term value for stakeholders by implementing forward-thinking DEI practices.
I am proud to serve on a board that values diverse perspectives and understands the important impact DEI has on organizations and the communities in which they operate. We were honored to be recognized for our efforts as a winner in the 2023 NACD Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Awards, and we remain committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive culture.
G.R.O.W. Program
In 2023, RGA’s global DEI team introduced Grow Representation of Women in Leadership (G.R.O.W.), a new program that provides women at RGA with resources for professional networking, growth, and senior leadership development.
Working alongside RGA’s regional women’s employee resource groups (ERGs), G.R.O.W. aims to support the next wave of women in senior leadership at RGA by strengthening and creating new opportunities globally; connecting women across the organization to help the business grow; and enhancing wellbeing for those who balance work, community, and caregiving responsibilities.
DEI Engagement
DEI is now embedded in RGA’s biannual, company-wide employee engagement surveys. In the 2023 survey, 86% of employees said RGA supports diversity in the workplace and recognizes and respects people of different backgrounds and experiences. That level of engagement is four points higher than the survey benchmark for other high-performing companies. RGA employees who participate in ERGs reported even stronger engagement – 89% – around DEI efforts.
Throughout 2023, Regional Diversity and Inclusion Councils (RDICs) from around the globe strengthened the inclusive atmosphere at RGA by providing DEI programs, educational courses, and opportunities for community engagement. Highlights included:
Each individual at RGA is unique, comes from a different background, and has distinct life experiences. DEI activities give us space and time to recognize, appreciate, and celebrate these differences.
Some of the best feedback I’ve received from our region is that ‘DEI is not just HR anymore.’ We have made great strides in embedding DEI into the business and accessing the numerous benefits of diverse voices and experiences.
One key DEI focus for us is supporting internship opportunities – it's one of the best ways to introduce diverse professionals to challenging, rewarding careers in the re/insurance industry.
Representation matters, and there is enormous power in giving people an opportunity to be seen. When you say, ‘I see you and I celebrate your background, identity, or race,’ that can be transformative for an individual and an organization.
