EQUITY & DIVERSITY ANNUAL REPORT – 2007

Section 3.2: Staff Training & Development

Relevant equity and diversity issues are incorporated into training and development programs provided by the Bank. In 2007, programs were reviewed to ensure that the diverse needs of staff are considered whether they are cultural, religious, or disability related. Equity policies were integrated into staff induction which now incorporates a specific module on equity and diversity issues.

In addition, a number of programs addressing diversity and cultural awareness were implemented during 2006/07. The Bank introduced English language skills training for NESB staff in the form of writing and grammar coaching conducted via group and individual sessions. To acknowledge the varying communication styles used by different cultures and to assist staff with career progression, the Technical Writing and Business Writing Programs continue to be offered with the objective of providing tailored training in written communication relevant to the workplace.

The Bank continues to monitor women’s access to and participation in training activities. Women have consistently made up a high proportion of staff attending in-house training activities, and participate at a higher rate than their representation in total staff.

Springboard, an external professional development program for non-managerial women, is another program the Bank has continued to support with five women attending in 2006/07.

During the reporting period, thirteen members of staff attended a Disability Awareness Workshop aimed at frontline customer service staff. The purpose of the workshop was to encourage participants to develop an understanding of disabilities and assist in identifying appropriate communication strategies for customers with different types of disability. The Bank has also purchased a training package for the Bank’s in-house software developers; the WebAim CD Online Accessibility Tool will help improve awareness of accessibility needs.

Graduate Development Program

The two-year Graduate Development Program continues to provide extensive training and development opportunities as well as a strong foundation for longer-term professional development. Forty one graduates, predominantly with Honours degrees, joined the 2007 program. In this reporting period, the Bank investigated a number of coaching programs for female graduates where it could enhance their prospects for advancement to management/senior management positions.

Management Programs

The Bank provides a range of management programs to its staff. During this reporting period, the Bank ran its highly-regarded Central Banking Management Program. This leadership program is designed to enhance the skills of managers through greater awareness of themselves and their staff. This was attended by a total of 14 staff (eleven men, three women). Thirteen members of staff (nine men, four women) took part in the New Managers Program, designed to provide participants with understanding of characteristics of effective leadership, team building managing cultural diversity and effective conflict resolution. As part of the Executive Development Program, the Steps program has been piloted, aiming to enhance the skills of female managers and assist with their progression to senior management.