Epiroc has launched a new global parental leave policy that aims to foster “an even more inclusive and diverse culture”.
The Stockholm, Sweden-based company is giving new parents a minimum of 12 weeks of paid time off. The initiative is available to mums and dads, including surrogate, adoptive and same-sex parents. They can use the leave within the first year of parenthood.
Called “When life transforms”, the new genderless policy will be rolled out in the first half of this year for its 17,000-strong worldwide workforce.
Helena Hedblom, Epiroc’s president and CEO of the productivity and sustainability business which supports the mining and infrastructure industries, said: “At Epiroc we want to accelerate the transformation toward a more sustainable industry. One important part of this transformation is the focus on inclusion and diversity.
“We want to create a culture that supports equal parenting by giving every new parent an opportunity to spend more time with their child and balance career and family responsibilities.”
While the new initiative applies to all company employees globally, in some countries the local standard will be more beneficial than Epiroc’s 12-week policy. In these circumstances, they will override the employer’s offering.
Nadim Penser, Epiroc’s senior vice president brand and communication, HR and SHEQ, added: “We believe this will be a valuable benefit both for our employees and for us as a company.
“A culture of inclusion and diversity is crucial to foster innovation and creativity, and we also want to contribute to a sustainable society. Additionally, it can help attract highly qualified candidates looking for an organisation with the right values and culture.”
