Careers

We actively seek ways in which to encourage women to participate in our industry

We actively seek ways in which to encourage women to participate in our industryMining has long been a male-dominated industry, but it is a trend that we are keen to buck at Anglo American. While much of the under-representation of women previously reflected broader social inequalities, as well as legal constraints, today there are no such excuses.

As the only major mining company with a female chief executive, Anglo American is leading from the front in this area and is a passionate advocate of gender equality.

We actively seek ways in which to encourage women to participate in our industry and we have already attempted to address many of the structural barriers that they face. Physical and health issues, working culture and workplace facilities have all posed considerable obstacles, but ones that are by no means insurmountable.

From the basics of ensuring our female employees have personal protection equipment designed with women in mind and in appropriate sizes, and the provision of suitable washroom facilities, to establishing childcare facilities and a Code of Good Practice for pregnancy in the workplace, we aim to create an environment where our entire workforce is treated fairly and equally.

The progress we have already made in this area is illustrated by our rising number of female employees. In 2011, the Group as a whole saw the number of women in management rise to 22% (2010: 21%), while the overall proportion of women in the workforce increased to 15% (2010: 14%).

We are certainly making positive steps, but we are committed to achieving more. 

Our involvement with organisations such as Women in Mining (UK) and Women in Mining South Africa allows us to listen to women within our industry, address their concerns and develop objectives accordingly. Collaborating and building these partnerships form a vital part of our progress.

From our boardroom to the mine face, we want women to have access to the many rewarding career opportunities provided by our industry. We don’t offer women the chance to be equal. We offer them the opportunity to be exceptional.