Top marks on Corporate Equality Index

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation has awarded ING US a 100 per cent score on its 2012 Corporate Equality Index (CEI) for the sixth year running.

The index assesses 850 American companies on their efforts at achieving lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality in the workplace. While the firms are annually rated on 40 specific policies and practices, the assessment for 2012 was made on the basis of additional new stringent criteria around transgender health benefits.

Critical to business success

Rob Leary, president and chief operating officer of ING Insurance US, said: “ING is honoured to receive this recognition by the Human Rights Campaign. This survey helps us to annually review our LGBT workplace policies, ensuring we continue to improve how we maintain an inclusive workplace environment, which is critical for our business success.”

Commitment to equality...

In their quest for a perfect score and the coveted distinction of ‘Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality’, companies are expected to implement inclusive equal employment opportunity policies and provide equal employment benefits. They are also required to demonstrate organisational LGBT competency and their commitment to equality publicly, exercising responsible citizenship.

… and diversity and inclusion

Rhonda Mims, president of the ING Foundation and senior vice-president of ING’s US Office of Corporate Responsibility, added: “ING’s outstanding score on the CEI survey provides a validation of our practice and commitment to diversity and inclusion of all employees. We are particularly proud of the leadership of our LGBT employee resource group. They have helped us gain a better understanding of the LGBT community.”