Avove partners with Womens Utilities Network
We have joined forces with the Womens Utilities Network (WUN) to build on our strategy to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce, as we look to attract and retain the best talent across the industry.
WUN was formed in 2018 and was set up to encourage women to join the utilities sector, with careers across all areas of the business. Founded by a group of women who built successful careers in both energy and water, WUN seeks to help other women to build the right networks, get access to training and take control of their own work lives at whichever stage of their career they are at.
As part of the partnership, we will benefit from being able to share best practice with other companies, participate in the mentoring programme, advertise our vacancies to over 4,000 of WUN’s members, and attend events focussed on development of women in utilities.
The utilities sector still lacks diversity with women still being underrepresented. In 2022, WUN has made progress in many ways, but in the workplace, we are yet to see true equality and diversity, especially in the utilities sector. Women make up 19% of the workforce and many other minorities don’t even make it into double-digit numbers so WUN continues in its mission.
We are delighted to partner with WUN. As part of our social impact strategy, we are committed to ensuring that we create a brighter future for women within this industry. Having a diverse workforce is vital to our success, and our ethos aligns with this partnership. We want to ensure that as a company we inspire a new generation of skilled people coming into the industry to continue our vital work and support those who are already helping us to deliver our crucial services.”
Avove’s Business Director of Operations and Executive Sponsor for women at work, Patrick Rafferty
I am delighted that we are partnering with WUN, who bring a wealth of experience working with women within the utilities industry. I am incredibly passionate about diversity and inclusion and have a strong connection with WUN and admire the work they do to raise awareness and aspirations of the women working in this sector. This partnership is about supporting women, helping them to connect and share their knowledge, and signifies a step in the right direction to progress towards Avove’s equality, diversity and inclusion goals.”
Avove, Head of Communications and Social Impact, Jade Lester
Avove’s ethos and values align closely with WUN and we are delighted that they have chosen to partner with us – together encouraging and supporting more women to develop careers focused on utilities infrastructure.”
WUN Co-Founder, Jo Butlin