#Japan #Tokyo #Gender Equality #EY #Dentsu Runway

EY's Strategic Support to Drive Gender Equality in Leadership

In a recent initiative aimed at transforming corporate leadership dynamics, EY Strategy and Consulting (EYSC) has partnered with Dentsu Runway in Tokyo, committing to a groundbreaking goal: achieving a 50% representation of women in management. This ambitious target exceeds the industry average of approximately 30% and addresses the pressing need for innovative human resource strategies that accommodate both child-rearing and career advancement.

Background: Building a Diverse Workforce for Sustainable Growth

Dentsu Runway has been focusing on enhancing brand experience through a strategic growth model, emphasizing the importance of cultivating diverse talent that can enrich the organization. Understanding the unique challenges faced by women in the workforce, especially during childbirth and childcare, has led them to prioritize the development of comprehensive policies that enable women to return to work and thrive in their careers. This strategic shift signifies a commitment not just to setting targets but to fostering a robust framework that supports women's ascent to leadership.

EYSC's Contribution: Designing Innovative HR Systems

With a wealth of experience from supporting Dentsu Runway since its inception, EYSC undertook a thorough assessment by engaging with employees to gather insights and benchmark against best practices from other organizations. This effort led to the design of a more flexible compensation structure that allows women to maintain full-time positions while managing their work responsibilities alongside parental duties. Additionally, a system is in place to provide financial incentives for colleagues who support team members balancing these dual roles, ensuring a culture of mutual aid rather than reliance on individual goodwill.

Such strategic planning is aimed at creating an environment where employees feel secure in pursuing their professional ambitions while receiving the support they need from their peers.

Outcomes Post-Implementation and Future Plans

After the implementation of these supportive measures, feedback from staff has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing satisfaction that their needs and voices were taken into account during the development of these initiatives. This has resulted in increased employee engagement, reflecting a successful alignment between employee expectations and the company’s strategic goals. Dentsu Runway is committed to continuously re-evaluating and improving the support systems in place as they address new challenges that emerge through the ongoing operation of these programs.

Testimonials from Leadership

Ken Iwase, an executive officer at Dentsu Runway, articulates the significance of this initiative: "The target of achieving a 50% ratio of women in management is integral to our growth strategy. Establishing flexible working conditions during critical periods like maternity is essential to nurturing future leaders across the board. We aim to create an environment where employees from diverse backgrounds can express their preferences and choose paths that align with their life goals."

Yukiko Kuwahara, Partner at EYSC People Consulting, emphasizes the long-term vision behind these changes: "Since the establishment of Dentsu Runway in 2019, we have been dedicated to enhancing human resource frameworks, including succession planning and skill definition. Our focus has not just been on enabling continued employment but rather on facilitating active participation in leadership roles, considering the future workforce's demands. Our goal is to remain an authentic partner to Dentsu Runway in implementing strategies that drive effective brand experiences."

Conclusion: A Collaborative Path Forward

As EYSC continues to assist Dentsu Runway, they are prepared to face new challenges that arise through the application of newly established measures. Their partnership reflects a forward-thinking approach to corporate culture, aimed at not only achieving the immediate target of gender equality in leadership but also ensuring that it becomes a lasting, integral part of the organizational ethos. The commitment to innovation in human resource practices sets a precedent for other companies aiming to foster an inclusive and diverse workplace.

For more information on Dentsu Runway’s ambitious human resource strategies, visit EY Japan's website.