Unilever Nigeria says it has introduced a range of progressive policies, including a flexible working model, aimed at supporting the diverse needs of its workforce.
The disclosure was made known by the Human Resources Director for Unilever West Africa, Ola Ehinmoro, in a statement.
Speaking on the policies that are anchored on maximising productivity and work-life balance, Ehinmoro said the policies were made to meet the aspirations of the company’s employees regarding their diverse needs and priorities.
According to him, the policies embody six core areas that include maternal and paternal leave, menstrual leave, lactation and crèche facilities, hybrid working model, people with special abilities, and engagement initiatives.
The firm stated that while the policies covered all employees, special attention was given to the female gender as part of making the workplace as comfortable as it could be for them.
He said, “Putting into consideration the challenges that come with childbirth, the transition to parenthood and the importance of family, the company offers generous maternity and paternity leave beyond legal requirements as expectant mothers are entitled to 16 weeks of maternity leave, while fathers receive three weeks of paternity leave.
“Nursing mothers in the company are also provided with onsite crèche and lactation rooms to enable them to care for their babies and children while engaging in impactful work.”
He also said that as part of its flexibility measures to enable emotional, physical, and psychological balance for female employees during their menstrual period, the company allows for a one-day menstrual leave for them to rest and recuperate.
According to Ehinmoro, the flexibility also extended to working arrangements for all employees with the hybrid structure that allows for three days on-site and two days’ work from home.
“The company also provides allowances to support remote work and boasts offices that are equipped with the best digital tools to facilitate seamless collaboration and productivity,” he added.
