Zurich has been given Employer of Choice status by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency for the first time, joining long-standing recipients TAL and Helia.

The insurers are among 115 employers recognised for a commitment to achieving gender equality. WGEA awards the citation for two years, after which organisations can reapply. 

“Zurich has a long-standing and deep commitment to gender equality and we are honoured to join the select group of organisations recognised,” CEO Justin Delaney said.

The insurer has introduced talent and succession programs, flexible working policies, remuneration targets and employee training, and tracks and reports on its progress.

It aims to have 40% men, 40% women and 20% any gender in senior leadership roles by the end of 2026.

WGEA CEO Mary Wooldridge says employers should aim for a gender pay gap no larger than 5%, and the 115 recognised employers have demonstrated efforts to tackle the “deep-rooted causes of gender inequality in the workplace”.

“These employers provide an example to others who may be wondering how they can start to address the systemic issues that limit both men and women from reaching their potential at work,” she said.

TAL’s initiatives include pay equity, equal employment policies and training, flexible working options, the TAL Female Leaders Sponsorship Program, domestic violence leave, training and support, parental leave benefits regardless of gender and reporting of equity indicators.

CEO Brett Clark says the life insurer has a “deep commitment to ensuring that all ... employees are treated equally and have the same access to opportunities for personal growth and career advancement”.

Earlier this year, WGEA reported the finance and insurance services industry has a gender pay gap of 26%, second worst behind construction on 32%.

Helia’s pay gap was 5%, TAL’s 18% and Zurich’s 23%.