Lek receives the Include.All award for promoting balance, diversity and inclusion

The award was accepted on behalf of the company by Gregor  Makuc, Lek's Chief Executive Director, who said, "The Include.All award is proof that we are on the right track in our efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, and that our work is delivering tangible results. We firmly believe that the best innovations come from collaboration based on trust, mutual understanding and respect. In such an environment, people feel a sense of belonging and the motivation to create new opportunities and explore the unknown, and aren't afraid to take risks. This courage is how we grow as individuals and as an organization."

The foundations for a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion at Lek were laid a decade ago, based on the knowledge that employees who feel safe, valued and respected in all their diversity are more satisfied, creative and engaged, which is also key to business success. The company promotes a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of discrimination based on personal characteristics such as gender, age, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability and others.

At Lek, diversity, equity and inclusion don't just exist on paper, but are also promoted in practice through various initiatives and activities. "At Lek, we try to focus on different areas of diversity at the same time. We believe it is crucial for the success of our company for us to treat all areas with an equal amount of attention and sense of importance," explained Ajda Novak, Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Sandoz Slovenia.

This includes ensuring an inclusive and transparent recruitment process and following guidelines on gender balance in governance bodies and higher management, ensuring accessibility for people with reduced mobility, and providing mentoring, education and training on a range of topics related to diversity, equity and inclusion. The company also encourage employees to get involved in Communities of Belonging, where they address important issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion, pick out activities and organize events to co-create the company culture.

The Include.All award is one of many other recognitions and certificates that attest to Lek's commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment: Family Friendly Company, Disability Friendly Company, LGBT Friendly Company and MEGA Inspiration for Intergenerational Collaboration. Lek is also a signatory of the Diversity Charter and a six-time recipient of the Most Reputable Employer in Slovenia and Top Employer 2024 awards.