Research has shown a direct correlation between the increase in national economic growth and positive female workforce participation. From a business perspective, research of Fortune 500 companies found that those with at least one female board member experienced significantly higher returns on equity (53%), better sales (42%), and a two-thirds greater ROI than those with all-male boards. "Creating an inclusive and diverse work environment makes good business sense and is the right thing to do. Data clearly shows organisations that have more inclusive environments perform better and have stronger financial results" said Caroline Cassar Reynaud.

Deloitte Malta has created a culture and an environment of trust and acknowledges its commitment to diversity and inclusion through various programmes and initiatives including more assistance to working parents who return from maternity or paternity leave, the increase in paternity leave for male staff members who become fathers to name a few - research shows having a flexible approach increases productivity. More recently Deloitte is also conducting a review of its salary scales to establish whether any gender or nationality pay gaps exist within the organisation with a plan to mitigate any disparities that may exist. "Ultimately if we want to be an employer of choice we recognise that we must deliver on what we promise as we all stand to benefit. The day our job is done is that day when we are no longer discussing these issues as they are in fact an issue no more' said Caroline Cassar Reynaud. 

Deloitte Malta also celebrates International Women's Day annually, promoting its commitment to gender equality the reminder that organisations must strengthen efforts to support the elevation of more talented women to leadership positions. Deloitte Malta organises focus groups to reflect on the achievements of women and to discuss the challenges faced around the world toward making gender equality a reality.

Deloitte has also reinforced its commitment to "maintaining an organisation where everyone has equal opportunity to grow, develop, and succeed; to essentially be their truest selves, both professionally and personally" through its 'ALL IN' strategy. ​

"As we join with our colleagues around the world for International Women's day, we accelerate our ALL IN strategy - Deloitte's commitment to diversity and inclusion and expediting representation of women in leadership roles." said Deloitte Malta Diversity and Inclusion Leader Caroline Cassar Reynaud. "However our job does not stop there - the beauty of our firm is the diversity of our people that enrich the very being of Deloitte in Malta. Each one of us is different and brings something unique to the table and it is our duty to continue to provide the right working environment to allow individuals to express themselves freely and fully. This is not about numbers or statistics this is about wanting to give people the opportunity to be the very best they can be."

For more information, please visit www.deloitte.com/mt/diversity