Novartis introduces equal parental leave for all parents globally
Starting this year, Novartis will begin offering equal paid parental leave, of a minimum of 14 weeks, to all new parents around the world, regardless of gender.
Announcing the development, Vas Narasimhan, CEO, Novartis said, We have begun an amazing conversation at our company about what it means to be more inclusive, especially when it comes to gender inclusion, and I’m proud we’re taking concrete steps to give our people more flexibility when they become parents. I believe these are the kinds of actions that not only benefit our associates and our business but help us move towards a more equitable society. As a father, it also gives me great joy to see us celebrating one of the most impactful moments in our people’s lives.”
From 1st July 2019, Novartis will begin a phased roll out of its new global parental leave policy, which will offer equal parental leave to all parents through birth, surrogacy or adoption, regardless of gender.
By 2021, Novartis Group company employees across the world will be able to benefit from a minimum period of 14 weeks paid parental leave for both parents, eligible from their first day of employment.
While many countries already have generous and equal parental leave policies, it varies hugely around the world. As Novartis continues its cultural transformation, we felt strongly this was an important step to help us build the truly inspired, curious and unbossed culture.
The company feels that the new global parental leave policy will enable them to make the right choices for the health and well-being of their families, by offering flexibility and financial stability, so that they can enjoy the moments that matter with their loved ones.
Commenting on the decision, Steven Baert, CHRO, Novartis, said, “For me, it’s also a matter of supporting our employees through the different stages of their life cycle. Which is why, prior to taking parental leave and upon re-entry to work, Novartis will provide coaching to help our people understand their options and support their reintegration into the workplace, so that they can come back inspired and curious with a renewed sense of purpose and wonder about the amazing work that we do.”
The organization believes that their investment in an equal global parental leave policy will be more than outweighed by the long-term benefits of higher engagement and productivity through increased loyalty, job satisfaction and greater degrees of in-house knowledge, and the ability to attract top talent.