Our aims
Embrace is a UK group run by employees and is open to all - regardless of background. Its members are a diverse range of individuals united by a passion and drive to highlight the importance of diversity within the business, and ensure everyone is understood and respected in the workplace. Embrace is supported by Director-level sponsors and allies who ensure the views of the group are heard at the most senior level in BAE Systems.
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Our vision is to be a forum for discussion and change in BAE Systems, where the benefits of cultural diversity are promoted, embraced and realised.
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Our mission is to promote cultural diversity within the business and highlight the importance of having a diverse workforce.
“All people, regardless of their age, race, gender, disability, religious beliefs and upbringing have the right to be treated fairly and equally.
I want to help create a more inclusive environment at BAE Systems where employees are respected and valued for who they are, where they get equal access to opportunities and resources, and where they can thrive and contribute.”
“I joined the Submarines Operational Excellence graduate scheme in September 2022. Shortly thereafter, I was nominated as Co-Chair of Embrace and it has been fantastic engaging with stakeholders throughout the business in discussing and challenging the status quo.
Formerly practising Financial Litigation, I believe celebrating ethnic and cultural diversity drives innovation, accelerates performance and fosters a more positive working environment. Embrace is a key driver of achieving better diversity, equity and inclusion at BAE Systems and we perform as a crucial part of the business in setting a culture that welcomes all and constantly pushes for excellence.
I am very excited with what Embrace has on offer and it will be great to see more people get involved throughout the business.”
“For me Embrace is a support group for ethnic minority employees in the organisation. A safe space where they can discuss their experiences and concerns with colleagues who may (or may not) have experienced similar in the past, but also discussing with colleagues who understand and can empathise. These experiences can be used to drive and influence change in the business by highlighting, raising awareness and educating on cultural and racial differences.
In recent years, BAE Systems has placed diversity and inclusion at the top of our agenda. I am proud to support the Embrace Employee Resource Group and be part of the change we are striving for. I want to inspire, motivate and champion ethnic minority employees in our workplace.
'You can't be what you can't see' is a phrase I have seen and I often use. Success in my role to me means that we normalise the conversation about inclusion and it becomes a cornerstone of who we are as an organisation.”
“Employee groups like Embrace are driving important and positive change in organisations by challenging entrenched attitudes and stigmas around cultures and ethnicity.
At BAE Systems, Embrace gives employees from all backgrounds a voice to share any concerns in a safe space, put forward ideas for change and know that they are being heard.”
“I undertook the role as business unit representative for Embrace because I have a real desire to embed diversity, equity and inclusion in all that we do within our organisation. I vehemently believe that it is the right thing to do. Diversity in business creates success because it enables creativity. You double your chances for success when you include people who have a completely different background, whether race, religion, gender or country of origin.”