Diversity and inclusion
Diversity and inclusion
Welcome to a place where you can belong
We believe when you bring together different people and different perspectives it inspires creativity and drives innovation. It helps us fulfil our purpose and it's integral to our culture. We want everyone to be heard and respected, allowing us all to develop and thrive together.
Working at BAE Systems brings great opportunities, providing a platform for everyone to have a fulfilling career whatever their background. Harnessing the power of our people will create a secure tomorrow for generations to come.
Building a better workplace
We want to help change the world we live in for the better – and that starts with our workplace. We're committed to building a truly diverse, inclusive, and equitable place to work. We actively promote a culture of respect so everyone can be free to be themselves. It empowers us to do our best work, it enables us to grow, and brings us together to find new and better ways to protect what really matters.
Our ambitions
We want to lead the way in our sector and beyond. By 2030 we have set our ambition for women to make up at least 50% of our Executive Committee and 30% of our workforce. We’re determined to be more diverse at all levels of the organisation and to be truly representative of the communities in which we operate. There’s work to do, but we’re focused on attracting the best people to work here – regardless of gender, age, ethnic or religious background, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic. To secure our ambitious future, we are committed to investing in our people. Without them, there is no us. Working here, whatever your role, you will find the tools, support, and inclusive environment to fulfil your ambitions and make an impact now and in the future.
Things we're proud of
Stonewall Diversity Champion
BAE Systems is a Stonewall Diversity Champion. The Diversity Champions programme is the leading employers' programme for ensuring all LGBTQ+ staff are accepted without exception in the workplace. We work closely with Stonewall to ensure we create inclusive and accepting environments for all our UK workforce.
Social Mobility Pledge
The pledge asks signatories to partner with schools or colleges, deliver structured work experience and apprenticeships to those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It also asks signatories to open employment recruitment practises to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Armed Forces Covenant
We were the first Defence Company to sign up to the UK Armed Forces Covenant, cementing our commitment to supporting those who serve, have served and their families.
Movement to Work
We are committed to supporting this project and working together to tackle youth unemployment.
The Valuable 500
This is a global movement putting disability on the business leadership agenda.
Women in Defence
The Women in Defence Charter is a commitment to work together to build a more balanced enterprise across the defence sector.
Neurodiversity in Business
An industry forum that seeks to improve the participation of the neurodivergent in the workplace.
Mental Health Commitment
This pledges employers to change the way we all think and act about mental health in the workplace
Women in Maritime
Over 121 companies in the maritime sector have signed a pledge designed to signal intent on gender diversity.
Women in Tech
The Charter is designed to increase diversity within the UK’s tech companies, with the aim of achieving equal opportunity and representation for all employees in the sector.
Our employee resource groups
With the help of our thriving employee resource groups we want to create a truly inclusive culture – so everyone can build a career in a place where they feel they belong.
Embrace
Supporting Cultural and Ethnic Diversity
An employee-led initiative that supports cultural and ethnic diversity. Acts as a forum for discussion and change where the benefits of cultural diversity are promoted, embraced, and realised.
ENabled UK
Supporting our Disabled Community
Support for employees with visible and non-visible disabilities, those who care for someone with a disability, and non-disabled allies. Promotes disability equality and works closely with senior leadership to make sure our working environment is accessible for all.
GEN
Supporting Gender Equality
The Gender Equity Network (GEN) is for all employees who believe everyone should be given the opportunity and support to succeed in their career, regardless of gender. The ultimate goal is to no longer be needed because gender barriers and biases will have been broken down in the workplace.
OutLinkUK
Supporting Gender & Sexual diversity
Employee-led Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and Other (LGBTQ+) group. Works to create an environment that is open and inclusive and provides support to people who may be experiencing issues with sexual orientation or gender identity, as well as their allies.
MindSet
Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing
Brings together colleagues and sponsors to raise awareness of mental health and create a culture of openness and conversation. It also provides a community of support and resources for all colleagues to focus on their mental wellbeing.
Vetnet
Supporting our Military Community
A network for veterans, reservists, and their supporters. It's a community to share and learn from each other and access support and mentoring. Focused on making BAE Systems a natural next step and home for veterans, while supporting their transition to civilian life.
