Diversity & Inclusion
Over the past five years, we have increased the number of women in management by 64 percent and of minorities in management by 68 percent.
A Diverse, Inclusive Workplace
Over the past five years, we have increased the number of women in management by 64 percent and of minorities in management by 68 percent.
Diversity of perspectives, life experiences, and skills are critical to Abbott's global competitiveness. Women make up nearly half our U.S. workforce (47 percent), and one quarter of our employees (26 percent) are members of minority groups.
Diversity Strategy
We focus our diversity and inclusion strategy in three core areas: recruitment and hiring, inclusion and culture, and leadership development. In 2007, we met all six of our gender- and minority-related placement goals in the United States. Women employees represent nearly 53 percent of our U.S. managers, while minorities represent more than 28 percent, an increase of 28 percent and 47 percent, respectively, compared to 2006 figures.
Diversity Management
The Executive Inclusion Council, led by our chairman and CEO, oversees our diversity and inclusion efforts, monitors the hiring and advancement of women and minorities in management, and supports the programs that promote an inclusive work environment. The Council presents an annual report to our board of directors. Inclusion councils operate in a number of Abbott divisions and support execution of elements of the strategy across the businesses.
Global outlook
We recognize that diversity means different things in different countries around the world. In 2008, we will initiate diversity discussions with our business teams in key countries to understand their needs.
