Statement on Diversity

Rationale

We must further develop our strategic ability to use the full range of talents and perspectives of our diverse employees to ensure that we have the breadth of viewpoints, experiences, and intellectual skills needed to succeed across our global environment. We must develop behaviors that bridge our many differences to maintain unity in pursuit of global growth.

While our Statement on Diversity may appeal to certain ideals of social justice, fairness and good corporate citizenship, it first and foremost makes good business sense.

Differences among individuals exist everywhere. If valued, they are a vital asset that assure strong performance, high productivity, loyalty, innovation and creativity, competitive advantage, increased market share and a steady source of diverse knowledge for our company as a whole.

Definition

Our differences involve diverse ways of thinking, feeling, expressing, living and being. This includes differences in personal style, work style, mind set and communication style.

Although certain factors may affect our differences - such as ethnicity, gender, language, local customs, physical abilities, race, religion, sexual orientation, sexual identity, life experiences, and socioeconomic status - they do not solely account for our many differences. These categories, while significant, do not allow for all of the complexities that come into play among human beings, nor do they allow us to address the more profound issues necessary for us to develop our full potential.

While the components of what constitutes meaningful differences varies widely among each of our respective countries and regions, issues of difference exist everywhere and they impact the way we work and achieve our goals.

Goal

To foster individual and team growth by building and reinforcing the right skills, attitudes and behaviors.

Hallmarks

An environment that values differences: