A dsm-firmenich employee story, as told in conversation with Lauren Wittenberg, Director eCommerce Sales Health, Nutrition & Care (HNC)
The Women Inspired Network (WIN) Employee Resource Group (ERG) is one of the five pillars of our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) strategy.
An entirely employee-led group, the WIN ERG works to advocate gender equality across our business, seeking to provide equal opportunities to all by encouraging positive change in processes and policies. In this story, Lauren Wittenberg reflects on how the WIN ERG grew in 2024, the areas and activities it focused on and the general benefits for all of our employees across the dsm-firmenich business.
So, Lauren, how does the WIN ERG operate and how can employees participate in it?
The WIN ERG group aims to empower, value, and support everyone – regardless of gender – on their professional journey. We aim to be a force for good within the company by clearly articulating the voice of the employee as well as a safe, inclusive space in which all community members and allies can participate in a range of virtual and in-person events or our online community chat, Viva Engage.
What was the primary focus in 2024?
Looking back, there were three main areas:
- Engaging events: We delivered multiple global events on advancing women in the workplace while also dual-tracking the topics to key business areas in women’s health, including menopause
- Leadership development: We helped launch our ‘Rise Together’ program, which provides training and a broader network to high-potential women seeking advancement. We plan to exceed the target of 36% female representation within the company’s leadership by the end of 2025
- Inclusive workplace practices: We helped shape and implement practices to support women going through menopause and menstruation – for example, the availability of wellness rooms and the provision of free sanitary products at all sites
As the Global Lead for our WIN ERG, I appreciate the opportunity to drive impact for people and our business. Alongside our global DEI team, there’s a core group of passionate WIN ERG leaders supporting the advancement of women, so we can shape the future of an even more inclusive workplace.
Why is menopause an important issue for the WIN ERG and how does this relate to our business activities?
Menopause impacts 100% of women, with 80% experiencing symptoms such as hot flushes. It can set in as early as 35, so in an environment where women are progressing in their careers their symptoms may last as long as 15 years.
We want to support women to manage their self-care as much as possible. This relates to our business in that we serve customers and consumers directly through science-backed innovation in beauty care solutions, vitamins, and brands such as Estroven® Menopause Relief. We aim to be part of the conversation, whether launching new products or lobbying in Washington, DC for funding and research.
What is the vision for growing the WIN ERG?
Whether we’re helping to shape DE&I practices, administrating employee benefits, or providing a platform, we are shaping the future of how women thrive in the workplace. Employees see this and want to be part of the movement.