Volvo introduces novel parental six month paid leave policy to South Africa
Volvo Cars South Africa has rolled out its latest global initiative in the form of a paid gender-neutral parental leave policy that will provide both mothers and father with a six month leave, in addition to allocating 80% of pay to same-sex parents and those of adopted children.
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“As part of Volvo Cars long term strategy of being an employer of choice in South Africa, the new parental leave policy is a welcomed initiative creating an inclusive culture that will continue to retain and attract a diverse group of employees,” Volvo Cars South Africa Managing Director, Greg Maruszewski, said in a statement.
“It will improve work – life balance, boost family time and fits with a progressive human-centric company like ours. The winners in this battle for talent will be companies that value diversity, gender equality, modern and flexible working practices and employee well-being. Attracting and retaining the best people is crucial and we know that skilled talent will be more selective in their choice of employer”.
According to the Chinese owned Swedish automaker, the first of its kind policy in South Africa will “deliver tangible benefits for both parents and children” as equal parental leave for both mothers and father has “the potential to boost labour market and career opportunities for women by reducing career and pay gaps”.
“The new policy forms part of Volvo Cars South Africa’s people strategy to not only attract and retain the best people through generous and inclusive paid parental leave packages but also position Volvo Cars South Africa as an employer of choice to both existing and future employees,” the statement concluded.