Partnering for Progress: EY's Commitment to Empowerment and Inclusion

Stephen Church, Managing Partner at EY, sits down for an insightful conversation with Simone Roche MBE, founder and CEO of We Are Power. Stephen, an 'honorary northerner', shares his perspectives on EY's journey towards building a better working world and its impactful partnership with We Are Power and the Northern Power Women Awards.

For EY, the mission to "build a better working world" isn't just a slogan but more than a decade-long commitment deeply ingrained in its values of integrity, respect, teaming and inclusiveness. This commitment extends beyond its corporate walls and permeates into the communities it serves. With a workforce of 400,000 spanning over 150 countries, EY has woven care and compassion into its culture, empowering its people to contribute to a better world. For We Are Power, EY’s mission perfectly aligns with our own commitment to use our power for good, right here from the North.

EY's initiatives underscore its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. From appointing its first female leader across the global organisation to launching initiatives like the Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence and the EY STEM app, the firm is driving innovation and inclusion at every level.

EY's Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence (NCoE) is the first in the UK, sponsored by Alison Kay (recognised on the Power List 2022), and fuels technological innovation, fosters creativity, and champions diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This initiative represents a significant step towards creating a more inclusive environment where individuals of all neurotypes can thrive. Similarly, the global EY STEM app aims to inspire young girls aged 13-18 to pursue careers in STEM fields, traditionally dominated by men. By encouraging participation and representation in these fields, EY is actively breaking down barriers and empowering the next generation of female leaders in STEM.

Reflecting on the importance of engaging with the younger generation, Stephen states, "when they get involved it delivers on our values, our mission for our people and their career development. When people talk about why they join us, its our culture, behaviour and values that standout. Locally across the north, I also believe that more than just me and more than just the partners need to get involved across this initiative. Engaging as many of our team is important for me."

Stephen reflects on EY's ongoing engagement with We Are Power and the Northern Power Women Awards, underlining the significance of active involvement in society and local communities. As EY continues to headline the Northern Power Women Awards for the fourth consecutive year, these platforms serve as a catalyst for EY to foster connections and enact tangible change. This partnership isn't merely about sponsorship; it's a shared dedication to using our power for positive change.

The 2024 Northern Power Women Awards includes a brand new category, the Advocacy List, which recognises those who identify as male who are actively using their power for good to accelerate gender equality and inclusivity. Stephen's inclusion in this list left him pleasantly surprised, stating, "I don't think I advocate for a specific gender, I think I advocate when it's appropriate and right" For Stephen, advocacy isn't just a choice but a fundamental responsibility that he has incorporated into his leadership style.

Stephen acknowledges his super power, resilience, which he credits to his supportive wife, Sarah, acknowledging the challenges of balancing a demanding career, including periods of working abroad. This resilience fuels his drive to overcome obstacles and make a difference. Looking back at his personal and professional growth, Stephen offers advice to his younger self: "go slower, it will come, and have confidence in yourself". He now finds admiration in watching these traits manifest in his own children, recognising the importance of patience and self-belief in navigating life's challenges.

The partnership between EY and We Are Power symbolises a shared vision for progress and empowerment. Through initiatives like the STEM app and Northern Power Women Awards sponsorship, EY demonstrates its belief in collective action to drive meaningful change. The collaboration between EY and We Are Power exemplifies the power of partnership in creating a more inclusive and equitable world. By leveraging resources and expertise, we are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.