The Energy Club WA recognises leaders who make a significant difference in creating more inclusive,
diverse, and equitable workplaces.

In 2024, Nick Fennessy, Michael Arnold, Andrew Sanders, and Deidre Riley from Scotford Fennessy,
won the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Impact Award.

Their leadership has advanced the culture within their organisation and made a lasting impact on
their employees, especially by fostering an inclusive environment for working parents and those
navigating personal milestones.

Balancing career aspirations with personal challenges can be difficult, and the leadership team at
Scotford Fennessy stands out for their support.

They have been nominated by an employee who, when offered the opportunity to join the company,
was transparent about needing flexibility due to IVF treatments and maternity leave.

The leadership team embraced the situation, offering the role with the assurance of flexibility.

This understanding set the tone for a culture rooted in inclusion, where the needs of individuals were
a focus, and where long-term goals were prioritised.

However, their commitment to inclusion did not stop there. After the employee returned from
maternity leave, they felt sidelined from their role and questioned their place within the organisation.

Despite the leadership team’s efforts to cover the employee’s responsibilities during their absence,
the well-meaning support led to feelings of disconnection and uncertainty.
 

When voicing these concerns they were met with empathy, understanding and action to restore the employee’s responsibilities.

For the employee who identified as an LGBTQ+ parent, this sense of inclusion extended beyond their professional role.

This commitment to diversity has enriched the workplace culture and set an example for others in the organisation.

Effective diversity, equity, and inclusion leadership is about creating an environment where employees feel safe to express their needs and where those needs are taken seriously.

The leadership team’s actions illustrate the belief that inclusion is not a one-time event but an ongoing commitment that requires attention, responsiveness, and continuous support

One of their employees said: “I am proud to work alongside leaders who genuinely care about the well-being and growth of their team.”

The message highlights the organisation’s environment where employees are supported, their personal and professional journeys are respected, and where diversity is viewed as a strength.

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