Our Wholesale business unit faced a clear challenge—only 12%of our workforce were women, with even lower representation from diverse cultural backgrounds. This reflects broader industry issues, with women making up just 18% of New Zealand's energy sector despite future talent pools being 50% female and over 40% non-European.

Key challenges and accomplishments:

• Limited visibility due to gaps in gender and ethnicity data
• Aging workforce with valuable knowledge but limited diversity
• Future workforce with different needs, values, and expectations
• Competitive talent market with major infrastructure projects on the horizon
• Implementation of a DEI plan that increased female participation by 6% within 12 months
• Improved ethnic representation through targeted initiatives
• Demonstrated that inclusion delivers stronger ideas, decisions, and business results
• Recognition that future talent looks different and expects better from employers