Firmenich, the world's largest privately-owned perfume and taste company, has announced it is the seventh company in the world -- and the first in its industry -- to receive Global EDGE Certification for gender parity in the workplace.

With this global endorsement, Economic Dividends for Gender Equality (EDGE), the leading business certification standard for gender equality, is officially recognizing Firmenich for driving a diverse and inclusive workforce worldwide, with equal opportunities for all.

Globally, Firmenich earned the "Edge Assess" level of certification after a rigorous third-party evaluation including gender balance, equal pay, effectiveness of policies & practices and the inclusiveness of the Group's culture.

Gilbert Ghostine, CEO Firmenich, states, "I am very proud that Firmenich is one of only seven companies world...This outstanding recognition not only positions us as an employer of choice for the men and women that work at Firmenich, it also makes us a trusted and reliable partner for our customers, as diverse teams consistently deliver superior results."

Aniela Unguresan, co-founder of EDGE Certified Foundation, says,  "Firmenich scored exceptionally well in the areas of inclusiveness of the culture and career advancement. Particularly notable was the high share of women in the workforce and in management positions, as compared to their industry peers. By pursuing the global EDGE Certification, Firmenich is applying the same rigor and discipline to addressing gender equality as they do to other business-critical goals."

Mieke Van de Capelle, Chief Human Resources Officer at Firmenich, adds, "I want Firmenich to be the best place to work in our industry globally. That's why we pursued global EDGE certification, supported by flexible work arrangements to ensure all our colleagues have an optimal work-life balance

Van de Capelle continues, "Globally, our female colleagues represent 40% of our senior management and workforce. This recognition confirms we are making gender balance a priority, going far beyond equal pay. We will not stop here, as we remain determined to achieving the highest level of excellence in this area."

Earning the certification entailed an intensive assessment of Firmenich data and processes, as well as a comprehensive survey of its employees worldwide. Firmenich emerged from the rigorous assessment as an employer clearly dedicated to gender equality, with global policies already in place for pay equity, an inclusive company culture, and high ratings from its colleagues in every country on equal hiring opportunities.

Photos: via Firmenich