Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

Social Impact People logoAt Sodexo, we are committed to promoting equitable opportunities, valuing diversity, and creating an inclusive working environment for all our employees. Our strategy is built on the ethos of the power of positive conversations that take place within a psychologically safe culture. 

In this way, we facilitate a growth mindset approach to having a healthy curiosity – encouraging people to learn more about one another.  This enables us to increasingly harness the benefits which diversity and inclusion bring to our colleagues, clients, customers and communities.

Our employee networks play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive environment. Each network is run by a committee of volunteers from within the business for the benefit of all employees.

The things we're proud of

  • Investing in Ethnicity Star Employer

    Investing in Ethnicity Star Employer

  • Disability Confident Leader

    Disability Confident Leader

  • We have signed BITC's race at work charter

    BITC Race at Work

  • Wellbeing of women menopause pledge

    Menopause workplace pledge

  • Stonewall bronze award logo

    LGBTQ+ Bronze Employer

  • Signatory of UNs Women’s Empowerment Principles

    Signatory of UNs Women’s Empowerment Principles

Our progress and commitment for an inclusive workplace - recent activity

Sodexo Ability network logo

What's your superpower?

At Sodexo we recognise that the word ‘disability’ doesn’t always reflect how people feel about themselves. By working to challenge the negative stereotypes that exist for people with disabilities – both hidden and visible - Sodexo’s Ability network is leading the way to share the things that make them unique.

Watch the video

From A-Levels to a meaningful apprenticeship in DEI

To coincide with A-Levels result day on 17 August 2023, Micah Bhatti, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion administration apprentice at Sodexo UK & Ireland, shares insights into her decision to pursue an apprenticeship post A-Levels and the valuable lessons she's gained.

Read the blog

24 interns join Sodexo as part of 10,000 Black Interns programme

The programme is a paid opportunity that provides valuable experience to an often under-represented group of talent. The interns will be given the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the Sodexo workplace by working with teams from HR, technology, and finance, as well as different areas of Sodexo, including its corporate services and schools & universities businesses.

Read the article

Pay gap reporting

We recognise the importance of embedding DEI at the centre of our business strategy and being transparent on the progress we are making. Not only does it make good business sense, but creates a diverse, fair, and equitable workplace that welcomes all. This pay report summarises our current position and explains how we will hold ourselves accountable for making change happen.

Download the report

Is gender equality in the workplace really improving?

In our recent webinar, we brought together a range of international speakers who shared sobering statistics as well as their thoughts on how to tackle the issue. Many of our guests had some great examples to share of how they have been helping to achieve gender equality in our workplaces.

Find out more
WiHTL 2022 Women to Watch & Role Models index

WiHTL 2022 Women to Watch & Role Models

Three of our female colleagues have received recognition in the Women to Watch & Role Models for Inclusion in Hospitality, Travel & Leisure (HTL) Index 2022 produced by WiHTL in partnership with The MBS Group.

Read the press release
Employees celebrating Pride

Our employees are proud!

Sodexo’s PRIDE employee network let their rainbow colours shine by taking part in Manchester Pride’s city centre parade in August 2022.

Watch the video

We champion women in leadership

We featured in the only official book marking the Platinum Jubilee pageant in recognition of how we champion women in leadership.