SSE has announced that it is one of 104 companies from ten sectors to join the inaugural 2018 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI). Launched today, the reference index measures gender equality across internal company statistics, employee policies, external community support and engagement, and gender-conscious product offerings. The 2018 GEI represents 24 countries and regions, including firms headquartered in the UK, Belgium, Chile, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Singapore and Taiwan. Companies range from a variety of sectors, including energy, communications, consumer staples, financials, materials and technology.

Rosie MacRae, Head of Inclusion and Diversity at SSE, said: “I’m delighted that our efforts to generate greater gender diversity at SSE have resulted in our inclusion in the 2018 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, a benchmark for strong gender disclosures and best-in-class policies and practices. As an organisation truly committed to long-term change, we believe open and honest disclosure of data is key to helping us understand how we can continue to improve at organisational-level and be a leader for driving change in our industry and wider society. We recognise, though, that there’s still a long way to go. But as one of just six companies in the UK to join the GEI and one of only two energy companies, we stand energised and committed to creating a truly inclusive organisation that’s fit for the future.”

Peter T. Grauer, Chairman of Bloomberg, said: “We commend SSE and the other 103 companies included in the 2018 GEI for their efforts to create work environments that support gender equality across a diverse range of industries. Their leadership sets an important example that will help all organizations innovate and navigate the growing demand for diverse and inclusive workplaces.”

Kiersten Barnet, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Chairman at Bloomberg, added: “As investors continue to seek more information on companies’ approaches to environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, the 2018 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index allows investors to compare companies’ commitments to gender equality across industries. More data and greater transparency in this space will allow investors to make better-informed decisions and help companies better understand their own progress towards gender equality.”

SSE submitted a social survey created by Bloomberg in partnership with third-party experts Catalyst, Women’s World Banking, Working Mother Media, National Women’s Law Center, and National Partnership for Women & Families. Those included on this year’s index scored at or above a global threshold established by Bloomberg to reflect disclosure and the achievement or adoption of best-in-class statistics and policies.