Background 

In 2021, Cambridge University Press & Assessment set out to create a globally inclusive workplace fostering a strong sense of belonging among its employees across 80 regional locations. This goal came in response to the findings of a culture diagnostic, which revealed that only 57% of employees felt the organisation’s policies promoted equity and just 47% believed their perspectives were included in decision-making. Differing levels of maturity regarding equality and diversity across regions meant that creating a unified approach to EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) was challenging. Cambridge University Press & Assessment needed global EDIB policies that could transcend regional differences while respecting local cultures.

Approach 

Cambridge’s approach centred around a collaborative, globally-inclusive strategy to create a unified global EDIB policy together with global trans and non-binary inclusion guidelines. A newly-formed EDIB team, supported by external consultants like Unleashed and the Business in the Community, reviewed survey results and external good practice to ensure the policies would reflect the workforce’s diverse needs.

“Cambridge University Press & Assessment’s global equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging policies are creating a culture of inclusion and belonging across 80 regions, empowering employees worldwide”

Cambridge launched an EDIB Academy offering training on conscious inclusion, LGBT+101, trans inclusion and disability inclusion. Peer trainers from across global regions helped facilitate these programmes, fostering mutual understanding and respect among employees. The organisation also created regional EDIB committees to tailor the policies to local contexts and support their implementation globally. Regular cross-cultural dialogue was encouraged and leadership accountability was key, with the Executive Board actively endorsing the policies.

Outcomes

The new EDIB policies, launched in December 2023, have already begun to make a significant impact. Cambridge saw an increase in employee engagement scores, with 75% of employees now feeling a sense of belonging, up 8% from 2021. Additionally, 80% of employees believe the organisation is committed to inclusion, a 6% increase. The EDIB Academy has had broad reach, with over 2,700 courses completed globally and 32% of learners outside the UK, marking a major shift in regions with cultural sensitivity around diversity initiatives. This is evidenced in activities such as the first Pride celebration in Cambridge University press & Assessment’s Manila office, reflecting the growing sense of inclusion and belonging.

By creating a global framework that promotes equity while allowing for local cultural needs Cambridge is successfully embedding EDIB into its organisational DNA. Looking ahead it plans to leverage its new EDIB data strategy to further refine its policies and measure their impact more effectively, ensuring continued progress towards a truly inclusive workplace.