Diversity and inclusion at GEA: a values-based approach
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion begins with the GEA values. They underpin all our decisions and business activities. First and foremost, they provide the guideposts for how we treat one another as well as our external stakeholders.
We have more than 18,000 employees representing 104 nationalities across 62 countries. This provides a solid foundation for understanding and further embracing diversity and inclusion at GEA. We know that a diverse and inclusive workforce is good business and good for business. Not simply because it spurs innovation and productivity, but also because our employees draw strength and inspiration – personally and professionally – from each other’s differences.
The GEA values
GEA is here for the better
At GEA, we believe that engineering can and should be used as a force for good, in line with our company purpose: Engineering for a better world. We acknowledge there are always opportunities to do and be better. And we accept our role and responsibility in driving positive change in our world.
Diversity and inclusion – and creating equitable work environments – are areas that require everyone’s constant attention. GEA is committed to fostering a work environment characterized by appreciation and respect for all. We strive to empower all employees and provide them with equal access to opportunities and resources – regardless of their individual differences.
“We take diversity and inclusion seriously and have set measurable targets. By 2026, we aim to have 21% female representation in our top three management tiers, which is an ambitious goal for a mechanical engineering company like ours. Moreover, we want to fill 80% of open management positions with our own people in that time. This is a great opportunity for existing as well as future employees.”
Ulrich Braig
Chief Human Resources Officer
Diversity & inclusion
Support for our LGBT*IQ community
Diversity & inclusion
Cultural Coffee
Living diversity & inclusion at GEA
Women’s network and mentoring programs
Inspired by the popular Lean In circle concept, many of our female employees worldwide come together – either physically or online – to support each other and learn new skills. Through feedback, we know a significant number of participants notice positive change in their professional lives and take on new challenges and leadership opportunities thanks to the support and mentoring they receive from peers.
Our ‘Female Mentoring at GEA’ program enables employees to be matched with female leaders at GEA for more tailored, one-on-one dialogue. Additionally, GEA offers 20 high-potential female employees a one-year mentoring program. Led by 20 experienced female managers, this program helps participants accelerate their professional development within GEA.
Employer of choice
Diversity as opportunity
Meet our people
“We want to be accepted as individuals and be recognized as a group”
Kean Andrew Bruhn, Human Resources Specialist, Berlin, Germany, is a counselor in the fight against AIDS HIV and advocate for the gay community.
“Nothing can stop me from doing what I love to do”
She was just 19 when she moved from Cameroon to Germany all by herself. The fact that she couldn’t speak a word of German didn’t put her off.
"I never expected GEA to promote me when my disability got worse"
More than thirty years ago, on 1 August 1989, Heinrich Zolnetzko joined GEA as a forklift truck driver. Being visually impaired since he was a child, he was able to do a job he loved in GEA’s Logistics department in Bönen.
