Citigroup attracts more female applicants, wins award
The US bank won the 'new member' award from Opportunity Now, a UK campaign group aimed at helping women realise their potential in the workforce. Last year the same award went to JP Morgan.
Citigroup's success was based on the formation of cross-divisional teams tasked with achieving real and tangible improvements to women's lot. Over the past year, these teams helped to increase the percentage of female job applicants from 35% to 45%.
They also arranged for 55 high-flying women to be mentored by business heads, organised a pilot scheme in which 35 people worked from home, and compiled a 'respect index' based on the results of a survey of over 1,200 employees.
Lynne Fisher, Citigroup's head of diversity Europe, said the award should stand the bank in good stead. "When the business climate turns around and activity again focuses on recruitment it will help us to attract female employees."
