Unity in diversity by fostering strength in the modern workplace
At FCM, we believe that the true power of progress lies in our ability to embrace and celebrate our differences. Our people are our number one priority, and equality is our policy. Everyone has the same career opportunities, rights and privileges, and our success lies within our unique differences. It's in embracing these unique differences that our success thrives, fostering an environment where diversity propels us forward.
Our Flight Centre Travel Group 2023 workplace diversity survey found:
- 77% of staff identify as female
- 50% are parents or caregivers
- 46% can speak more than one language
- 10% identify as Tangata Whenua or Whakapapa Māori
- 11% identify as neurodivergent
- 68% are Millennials or Generation X
- 73% of our leaders identify as female
- 12% identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community
The dynamic force of a diverse workplace
FCM, as part of Flight Centre Travel Group, has a dedicated Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee which ensures we reach our commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive workplace.
Our DEI committee is instrumental in the development and execution of initiatives in cultivating unity, dismantling barriers, and fostering a more equitable distribution of opportunities.
Part of our commitment to cultural inclusivity is Te Rōpū o Te Reo Māori - our voluntary Māori language committee - which plays a pivotal role in fostering a workplace environment where our people feel encouraged and supported in confidently embracing the use of Te Reo Māori.
Prioritising mental health
In recognising the interconnectedness of personal and professional life, FCTG, in collaboration with Benestar, created an initiative to help foster a culture that prioritises mental health and overall wellbeing within our FCM community.
So, in collaboration with Benestar, FCTG created an Employee Assistance Program offering a comprehensive well-being service that extends beyond conventional benefits. The program provides free counseling services not only for our valued team members but also for their families and our leaders.
FCM also has a range of ‘wise’ initiatives our team can access, including:
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Parentwise which provides engagement, connection with and support for mothers, fathers and guardians;
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Moneywise, which provides financial wellbeing support to our employees – an initiative we have partnered with AMP to make possible; and
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Healthwise, where staff have access to nutrition advice through our health and wellbeing provider from qualified nutritionists, bio-age consultations and counselling.
Empowering work-life balance
Our commitment to nurturing an optimal work environment is done through the implementation of flexible and remote work options. We recognise the profound impact this has on both the wellbeing of our team members and the promotion of sustainable work practices through reduced travel time and minimised petrol usage.
Additionally, our "Hour of Empowerment" is a dedicated weekly time slot allowing our team the freedom to prioritise their physical and mental wellness as they see fit - a testament to our belief that a balanced, empowered workforce is key to sustained success.
The Flight Centre Foundation
In 2008, FCTG launched the Flight Centre Foundation which works to bring our people on our giving journey through our Giving Grants Program and partner support.
Flight Centre Travel Group employees have the option of donating regularly to the Foundation via monthly pre-tax payroll deductions - our Workplace Giving Program. All operating costs of the Foundation are covered by FCTG, meaning all funds donated by our people are passed through to our charity partners and grant recipients.
The collective impact of our teams' generosity, matched dollar for dollar by FCTG, allows us to create generous funds to support our chosen projects for a direct impact approach. With as little as $5 a week, or one takeaway coffee, our people have raised over $25 million dollars globally since the Foundation started ensuring that the communities where we work, live and travel benefit from the enormous generosity.
This year in New Zealand, we have partnered with the Mental Health Foundation and the Halberg Disability Trust.
Our journey in mental health recognition
The HeadFit Awards are New Zealand’s first national workplace mental health awards to celebrate individuals, teams and workplaces leading in workplace mental health.
In 2022, our General Manager of Flight Centre Heidi Walker won Leader of the Year, and we were highly recommended for Specialist of the Year, Learning & Development Excellence and Large Workplace of the Year.
These accolades not only spotlight our organisational commitment but also reinforce our pledge to prioritise mental health on a national stage.
Commitment to community
FCM’s our unwavering commitment to diversity, workplace wellbeing, and community support, we've intricately woven a narrative that shapes our organisational identity. From nurturing inclusivity to achieving recognition in mental health advocacy, each endeavor reinforces our dedication to cultivating a workplace that not only celebrates diversity but also prioritises the holistic wellbeing of our team, embodying the essence of a thriving and harmonious professional environment.
“Change requires a collective effort; it is small steps every day that make a difference. We are always on the lookout for ways to improve and look forward to working with our customers and partners to drive better outcomes in this space.” - Kelly Thomas, General Manager FCM New Zealand
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