Introduction
Host (Animansh Shastri, Taggd):
Welcome to Career Circles LIVE. This series puts talent acquisition, industry leaders, and candidates at the center of meaningful conversations. Today’s topic is “Diverse Talent, Inclusive Opportunities at Henkel.”
Henkel is a global leader in FMCG and consumer goods, recognized for its commitment to innovation, diversity, and inclusion. Joining me today is Rishma, Senior HR Leader at Henkel, to discuss Henkel’s diversity journey, opportunities for young and experienced talent, and the company’s inclusive culture.
Henkel’s Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Q (Host): What does diversity and inclusion mean at Henkel?
Rishma (Henkel):
I like to explain it with an analogy. Diversity is ensuring everyone is invited to the dance floor. Inclusion is making sure everyone feels free to dance in the center. At Henkel, we embrace people of different backgrounds, perspectives, and personalities.
It’s not only about gender. It extends to veterans, the LGBTQ+ community, differently abled individuals, and diverse professional experiences.
Challenges in Driving Diversity
Q: What challenges do you see in driving diversity beyond gender?
Rishma:
Like many large organizations, we began with gender parity, especially in manufacturing and consumer goods where representation is lower. But diversity is broader than gender.
Our challenges include:
- Representation gaps in certain functions
- Building flexible policies to attract diverse talent
- Opening opportunities across industries and geographies
We address these through sponsorship, flexibility in roles and locations, and building infrastructure to support diverse needs.
Building an Inclusive Culture
Q: How do you sustain DEI initiatives within Henkel?
Rishma:
- Leadership Sponsorship: Senior leaders actively drive and support diversity.
- Flexibility: Openness to alternate industries, geographies, and work models.
- Internal Advocacy: Regular communication, celebration of Pride Month, Disability Awareness events, and other campaigns to normalize inclusion.
It’s about making diversity a part of daily culture, not a one-off initiative.
Support for Employees
Q: How does Henkel support employees during personal and professional challenges?
Rishma:
Our approach is centered on genuine care. Examples include:
- Gender-neutral parental leave policies
- Flexible work-from-home options
- Post-maternity and caregiver support programs
We normalize life events like childbirth, caregiving, or health challenges. One instance: a new hire who discovered she was pregnant during her transition. We assured her of our full support, encouraged her to join, contribute, take her break, and return when ready.
Diversity Beyond Gender
Rishma:
At Henkel, diversity includes:
- International Representation: 138+ nationalities
- Generational Diversity: Talent across career stages
- Abilities: Programs for differently abled professionals
- Leadership Representation: 38% of Henkel’s management are women
We consciously recruit diverse talent across all levels, not just at entry or mid-level.
Opportunities for Young Talent
Q: What can young professionals expect from Henkel?
Rishma:
Henkel offers several graduate and early career programs:
- Innovation Impact Program – for R&D and technology enthusiasts
- Women Engineering Program – focused on core manufacturing roles
- Lead Programs – for marketing and commercial talent
- Digital Talent Programs – for careers in tech and digital
We encourage cross-functional and cross-border experiences. Many graduates rotate across Germany, China, and other global hubs early in their careers.
Advice to young professionals:
- Stay agile and open to different projects and geographies
- Don’t job-hop too frequently; invest time to grow within an organization
- Every year may not be perfect, but every experience adds value
Work-Life Balance at Henkel
Audience Q: How does Henkel promote work-life balance?
Rishma:
We follow a Smart Working model: hybrid work with flexibility of 3–4 days in office. We monitor overwork risks and encourage maturity in balancing work and life. It’s about flexibility, trust, and mutual responsibility.
Hiring Outlook
Q: What are Henkel’s hiring plans for next year?
Rishma:
Henkel has doubled hiring in the past two years and will continue to grow. We are hiring across supply chain, technology, IT, commercial, and marketing. Being present in both FMCG (B2C) and B2B spaces, opportunities span diverse functions and industries.
Final Thoughts
Rishma:
- Explore internships and graduate programs to experience Henkel firsthand.
- Keep your mind open to different career paths.
Follow Henkel’s official website and Instagram to see real employee stories.
