Out of recognition for the unique and valuable talent women offer the
workplace, a group of women from Manulife and John Hancock have come
together to form the Global Women’s Alliance (GWA). The GWA expands on
the already existing work of grassroots women’s groups started in
Boston, Portsmouth, Tokyo and Toronto.
Top employers everywhere are acknowledging that greater diversity and
gender balance, especially in leadership positions, can enhance
organizational performance, improve business results, and lead to higher
performing teams. At Manulife, this has translated into a culture that
actively supports diversity groups like the GWA.
“The impact of GWA is already being felt and demonstrates the
organization’s commitment to diversity – particularly from a gender
perspective. It is an employee-led initiative that has connected our
employees in a new way and encouraged collaboration across the globe,”
says Lisa Ryan of Global Talent & Succession.
Share. Empower. Thrive.
Sentiments like these lie at the heart of the GWA, which is for all
employees who support the attraction, development and advancement of
women throughout the organization.
Working to elevate the profile of women across the Company, this group
inspires and enables each member to reach her full potential by offering
resources for success. Local chapters across the Company meet
regularly to mentor each other, share experiences and help each other
design fulfilling career paths.
Executive sponsors include:
- Gavin Robinson, EVP and GM in Japan
- Michael Huddart, EVP and GM, Greater China in Hong Kong
- Caroline Utomo, SVP and Chief Risk Officer in Indonesia
- Andy Arnott, SVP, John Hancock Mutual Funds in Boston
- Joanna Lohrenz, VP Canadian Division Contact Centres and Jennifer Mercanti, AVP and Chief Counsel in Kitchener-Waterloo/Oakville
- Robert Tellier, Regional Vice President in Montreal
- Janice Madon, EVP and CFO, Canadian Division will continue to support the Women@Manulife group in Toronto