There is no doubt that women today make a great contribution to the working world and the success of organisations across the globe. Here in the UK, and across most of western society, it is a cultural norm to see women in the workplace, in positions of authority and making hugely important business decisions on a daily basis.

Yet despite this strong presence of women at work, gender disparity still remains. In fact, research shows that women earn 23 per cent less than men, and have done for the last 20 years. This shocking statistic stresses the need to cater to women in the workplace, ensuring they are given the same treatment as men, both financially and in other aspects of their role. 

Proactive measures should be put in place to ensure equal opportunities for men and women at work, and in doing so, create a more stable, just and fair working environment for all employees. Reinforcing that pay packages, promotions and other employee support systems aren’t rewarded to an employee on the basis of their gender, but rather their achievements and individual circumstances, is a critical step in addressing the gender parity and ensuring that each and every employee is valued.

Here at ADP, we strongly believe in the Pledge for Parity International Women’s Day Campaign and we support events that celebrate workplace diversity. Campaigns like this are so important in engaging female employees to achieve career success and make their way up the promotional ladder.

In fact, in celebrating the successes of women at work alongside this campaign, five of our impressive female employees have been nominated for the prestigious Rising Stars Young Business Women in Surrey awards, celebrating their great workplace achievements and exceptional contribution to the organisation.

It is with such pride that we see these bright young women represent ADP. Each has contributed to the success of our company with their talent, intelligence and diligence. As an organisation that values each and every individual, we continuously look for ways to support and reward those staff members that have gone above and beyond at work.  

While many organisations may feel that they do their part to reward women at work, there is still work to be done in bridging gender parity. I, along with many other business leaders, am therefore calling on organisations to come together and celebrate the contribution women make to the working world. By pushing for greater gender parity and recognition of exceptional work that all employees contribute, irrespective of gender, businesses will thrive and we can create a more equal – and better – working environment for all.

Pictured left to right: Lizzie Widdicombe, Charlotte Boyle, Cheri Howieson and Emma Beers, nominees for the prestigious Rising Stars Young Business Women in Surrey awards.