VFS Global, the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions, has once again proven its commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce.
According to the firm’s recently released 2023 Integrated Sustainability Report, the company has achieved significant milestones in promoting gender diversity and workforce inclusivity.
(TOP: Carold Kotie, Operations Manager for Kenya at VFS Global).
Key global highlights from the report include:
- 53% of new hires in the past year were women: Demonstrating a robust commitment to gender equality, VFS Global has hired more women than men in the past year. It marks a significant step towards achieving a balanced representation within the organisation.
- Balanced gender ratio: The company maintained a diverse and inclusive global workforce comprising 129 nationalities with a balanced gender ratio of 54% women to 46% men.
- Workforce growth: The global workforce expanded by 24%, from 8,883 employees in 2022 to 10,976 within the last year. This expansion underscores VFS Global’s commitment to providing job opportunities across different regions.
- 29% women in senior and middle management: In 2023, VFS Global maintained a healthy gender diversity ratio of 29% at the Management level. As part of its DEI efforts, it is mandatory for People Managers hiring candidates in middle and senior management to interview suitable women candidates or prioritise onboarding of women candidates for these positions.
In Kenya, women account for half of the total workforce of 76 employees. From key initiatives like full pay for maternity leave of three months to celebrating women in the workforce, VFS Global has invested in community outreach initiatives to pave the way for a more inclusive future across Africa.
Carold Kotie, Operations Manager for Kenya at VFS Global, stated: “I am pleased to say that women share an equal representation in our workforce of 76 employees, including managing our operations in Kenya. In addition to gender diversity, the company has also prioritised professional growth and development of our employees.”
VFS Global recorded a remarkable increase in employee training hours globally, totalling 338,023 hours last year, an 86% increase over the previous year. The investment in training underscores VFS Global’s commitment to nurturing its workforce.
As the world’s leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.
With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 68 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 153 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 292 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and backed by majority shareholder Blackstone, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
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