New Delhi: India Workplace Equality Index (IWEI), a comprehensive benchmarking tool for LGBT+ inclusion at the workplace, has recognised DDB Mudra Group in its list of top employers 2020. The group was awarded a ‘silver’ and has become the first in the Indian advertising industry to feature in the list, joining the ranks of 65 other companies across sectors including Wipro, Uber, GSK, Nielsen etc. 

This recognition acknowledges DDB Mudra Group’s commitment to promote awareness, acceptance and advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies. Initiatives such as inclusion of same-sex and live-in partners in the employee medical insurance policy, DDB Transit – the first-of-its-kind internship program for the transgender community and open pride – an employee resource group committed to I&D efforts are instances of the group’s concerted effort to make the workplace more diverse, progressive and united. 

DDB Mudra Group EVP & head – HR Rita Verma said, “At DDB, we keep D&I at the core of what we do. People perform better when they have the freedom to be themselves. Hiding a key part of their identity at work because they feel unsure or unsafe, can take a toll on employee motivation and performance. We strongly believe that creativity thrives when there is diversity, and we will continue our efforts for a diverse and thriving work environment.”

The index measures nine areas: policies and benefits, employee lifecycle, employee network group, allies and role models, senior leadership, monitoring, procurement, community engagement and additional work.