UniCredit is the first pan-European bank to achieve a Global EDGE certification for gender equity and inclusion

UniCredit achieved an important milestone, becoming the first pan-European bank with Global EDGE certification for diversity, equity and gender inclusion. This was made possible by sustained diversity and inclusion efforts by banks in Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia and Serbia, which achieved EDGE certification. They join already certified banks within the group in Italy, Germany and Austria.

UniCredit is now the first bank to hold this certification in 10 European countries. Thanks to these achievements, UniCredit is eligible for the prestigious Global EDGE certification. EDGE certification is the leading global standard for diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I). To obtain this certification, UniCredit banks were subjected to a rigorous evaluation by a third party for: representation in the succession process, salary equity, the efficiency of policies and practices, and the inclusiveness of the organizational culture.

All UniCredit EDGE-certified banks are committed to continuing to promote gender equality and inclusion in the workplace by following dedicated EDGE action plans. These plans are based on the results of the certification process. These include commitments such as ensuring women are represented at all levels of management, creating continuous opportunities for promotion and equal pay, encouraging men to take advantage of the bank’s paid paternity leave and more.

Andrea Orcel, CEO of UniCredit: “UniCredit is an example of sustainable business practices in Europe. I am proud to have become the first organization in the banking industry to hold EDGE certification in 10 countries and the first pan-European bank with global certification. To be a championing gender diversity, equity and inclusion is an integral part of our culture and reinforces our commitment to a clear set of principles and values, a crucial component of our continued business success. The exceptionally rich diversity of our team creates an inclusive environment needed to deliver the best solutions to our growing customer base across Europe.”

Aniela Unguresan, founder of the EDGE Certified Foundation, noted: “UniCredit’s success in achieving EDGE certification globally is a revolutionary step in business. Starting with five of its business entities in 2022 and now expanding to include six other entities, more than 80% of its total workforce, UniCredit demonstrates a deep commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as a driver of sustainable success. Their global certification speaks volumes for their confidence in EDGE as a voluntary standard and independent certification. It is also a strategic move to leverage a diverse talent pool, setting new benchmarks for an inclusive and fair workplace for all. By achieving EDGE certification globally, UniCredit is not only creating an exciting story, but is a pioneer of the future of business – diverse, equitable, inclusive and exceptionally innovative”

Oana Preda, People&Culture Director, UniCredit Bank Romania said: “Winning the EDGE certification is both a recognition of our concern for diversity, gender equality and inclusion in the workplace and an additional motivation to further promote these values. For us, diversity and inclusion are important elements that support innovation and performance, and we are dedicated to fostering a fair and inclusive work environment for all colleagues. We foster a culture where every colleague feels valued, respected and supported for their unique contribution. I am proud to be part of an organization concerned with diversity, inclusion and gender equality.”

EDGE Empower® is an integrated SaaS-based diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) solution that enables organizations to be more diverse, equitable and inclusive, make meaningful changes in the workplace and change business and society for the better. EDGE Empower® combines the power of the latest technologies, the knowledge and experience of DE&I experts, as well as independent verification and certification in one solution. EDGE Empower is brought to market by EDGE Strategy LTD, a business founded in 2013 and headquartered in Zug, Switzerland. EDGE Strategy LTD currently works with over 200 large organizations in 47 countries across five continents, representing 30 different industries.