At The Budd Group, our employees and customers represent a wide range of industries, people, locations, and communities. We want this same level of diversity reflected in our employee and supplier community. We proudly comply with all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, and disability or veteran status. That said, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion extends far beyond these mandates.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Explained
The terms, “diversity, equity, and inclusion,” are found all over these days, but what do they actually mean? What do they look like in practice? The Budd Group’s Diversity and Inclusion Manager, Portia Hall, puts it like this:
An inclusive company cultivates a culture that makes everyone feel welcome and heard; an equitable company removes systemic barriers and biases to ensure everyone has a fair shake; a diverse company is made up of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. When inclusion and equity are made a priority in the workplace, diverse talent is attracted and retained. Businesses committed to DE&I see more long-term growth and success, too, as diverse perspectives lead to innovation and stronger collaboration.
The Budd Group values diversity and strives to provide an environment that is open, creative, and accepting of one another’s differences. With these values at the forefront of our operation, we promote a culture where each individual is respected, honored, supported, and rewarded for their personal and/or team achievement.
Employment and Partnerships with DE&I in Mind
As an employer, The Budd Group seeks to attract a diverse group of qualified and talented people and retain those employees throughout their careers. Through affirmative measures on all levels of leadership, we seek to foster an environment that is responsive to the needs of its employees and its clients. These values are evident in our hiring, training, and development practices, as well as in our business relationships and community involvement.
The Budd Group is always seeking ways to make business opportunities available to minority-owned, women-owned, small disabled-owned, HUBZone, and small disabled veteran-owned businesses. To that end, we participate in strategic partnerships and purchasing alliances that help our organization achieve our Supplier Diversity objectives. We also participate in local events and are committed to the community in numerous areas throughout our service area.
A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Portia Hall likes to remind everyone that the DE&I journey is a marathon, not a sprint. We are all learning and growing in different ways and at different paces. The key to personal and organizational success is keeping an open mind, taking in new ideas and perspectives, and lifting up one another. In other words, we all have a part to play in creating a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment both at work and at home. The Budd Group is proud to continue along our own DE&I journey and help others along theirs.
To learn more about our values and company culture, click here or call us at 800-221-8158!
Looking to work with a growing and diverse team of hard-working individuals? Follow this link to find a job with us.
