In a remarkable achievement, Aurubis' Women4Metals initiative secured first prize in the Diversity & Inclusion Management category at the Human Resources Excellence Awards 2023. This prestigious award, recognizing outstanding HR management in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, was presented to Women4Metals (W4M) for its groundbreaking projects and unparalleled commitment to enhancing the appeal of the metal industry for women. The award was shared with the Mercer management consultancy, which has been instrumental in advancing W4M’s professional profile.
Foundation and Goals of Women4Metals
Women4Metals is an initiative tailored to foster the advancement of women within the metal industry. Established by female employees of Aurubis in 2019, its primary mission is to attract more female talent to the company and the traditionally male-dominated sector. The industry overall has a significant gender disparity, with women comprising just 16 percent of the workforce. In the metal sector, women make up 20 percent. One of W4M's key objectives is to ensure equal opportunities for all employees. Reflecting this ethos, the initiative has welcomed supporters of all genders from its inception.
Achievements and Initiatives
Despite its relatively brief existence, W4M has spearheaded and executed numerous projects focusing on recruitment, career development, working conditions, and awareness. These initiatives have included diversity action days, comprehensive analyses of female employees' working conditions across all Aurubis production sites, peer consulting, training programs, and representation at industry events and conferences. These efforts underscore W4M’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
Leadership Recognition and Future Goals
At the award ceremony in Berlin, Aurubis CEO Roland Harings praised the W4M team, stating, “The HR Excellence Award is a well-deserved honor for the entire Women4Metals team. The issues the network addresses are as relevant as ever. Offering equal opportunity to everyone plays a key role in every company’s future success. We also want to make our industry more attractive for women. Our objective is to draw more women to the metal industry.”
Laura Zielinski, Head of Human Resources at Aurubis, echoed this sentiment, noting, “Women4Metals is a groundbreaking HR initiative. Women’s empowerment and equal opportunity for all employees are an absolute must for those who want to attract the talents of tomorrow and retain good people. The work of Women4Metals is making a clear contribution to the Aurubis brand among job applicants and employees.”
Expanding Influence and Network
Women4Metals now boasts over 300 registered members at Aurubis, with a composition of 70 percent women and 30 percent men. Since 2022, the initiative has opened its doors to other companies and organizations within the sector, garnering interest from more than 60 entities. Additionally, the W4M team actively networks with similar initiatives on a global scale, further amplifying its impact.
HR Excellence Awards: Criteria and Significance
The HR Excellence Awards celebrate notable achievements across 33 categories of HR management. The criteria evaluated by the jury include innovation, creativity, alignment with company strategy, results, efficiency, and the overall effectiveness of the project or campaign. This year’s jury comprised over 40 seasoned HR experts and supervisors. The awards are sponsored by Quadriga Media Berlin GmbH and the Human Resources Manager trade magazine.
2019
Women4Metals initiative established by female employees of Aurubis
2022
W4M opens doors to other companies and organizations in the sector
2023
W4M wins first prize in Diversity & Inclusion Management at HR Excellence Awards
Present
W4M has over 300 members at Aurubis (70% women, 30% men)
Aurubis: A Leader in Non-Ferrous Metals
Aurubis AG stands as a leading global provider of non-ferrous metals and ranks among the largest copper recyclers worldwide. The company processes complex metal concentrates, scrap metals, and both organic and inorganic metal-bearing recycling materials into high-quality metals. Annually, Aurubis produces over one million tons of copper cathodes, which are then transformed into various products including wire rod, continuous cast shapes, profiles, and flat rolled products made of copper and copper alloys. Aurubis also produces precious metals, selenium, lead, nickel, tin, and zinc, as well as additional products such as sulfuric acid and iron silicate.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Aurubis’ strategy. Adhering to the maxim “Aurubis responsibly transforms raw materials into value,” the company integrates sustainable practices and business activities into its corporate culture. This commitment involves prudent resource management, responsible social and ecological conduct, and fostering healthy, sensible growth.
Global Presence and Market Position
Aurubis employs approximately 7,200 people and operates production sites in Europe and the United States, supported by an extensive global distribution network. The company’s shares are part of the Prime Standard Segment of the German Stock Exchange and are listed in the MDAX, the Global Challenges Index (GCX), and the STOXX Europe 600. The recognition of Women4Metals at the HR Excellence Awards is a testament to Aurubis’ dedication to diversity and inclusion within the metal industry. As W4M continues to grow and influence the sector, its commitment to fostering an equitable workplace remains steadfast. Through initiatives like W4M, Aurubis not only enhances its brand among job applicants and employees but also sets a benchmark for the industry, demonstrating that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for future success.
