MAX Solutions names Woolworths Employer of the Year 2019

Australia’s largest employment services provider, MAX Solutions, has named Woolworths its Employer of the Year in recognition of the retailer’s campaign to promote workforce diversity.

The annual award was introduced by MAX in 2018 to highlight employers who encourage inclusivity and diversity in their recruitment programs.

Woolworths has won the 2019 Employer Award for its commitment to provide employment opportunities to Indigenous Australians and its work to hire and retain staff from a range of different backgrounds, including people with disabilities.

MAX Solutions Managing Director, Deborah Homewood, said: “Given its position as one of Australia’s most iconic retailers, Woolworths leadership on workforce diversity is hugely important.

“Businesses that promote inclusive cultures can, and very often do, have a profoundly positive impact on individual lives and local communities, as well as their own organisations.”

In 2019, Woolworths worked with MAX Solutions and specialist program provider, Diversity Dimensions, to achieve a total of 318 employment placements, including 117 Indigenous placements and 44 for people with disabilities.

Rachel Mead, Woolworths Head of Diversity and Inclusion, said: “As one the country’s largest employers we know we have an important role to play in creating opportunities for prosperity for all Australians.

“This diversity brings a rich culture, personality and vibrancy to our business. We are delighted to be recognised for this Award and excited we can continue to partner with MAX Solutions to offer people from a range of different backgrounds the chance to build a great career with Woolworths."

MAX Solutions and Diversity Dimensions support Woolworths Indigenous Employment Parity Initiative. MAX also supports a number of the retailer’s local offices to create opportunities for young Australians and those with disabilities.

Woolworths Group employs more than 200,000 team members across brands including Woolworths, BigW, BWS and Countdown in New Zealand. In 2018 and 2019, the business was recognized as a Gold Tier Employer in the Australian Workplace Equality Index for its commitment to creating an inclusive culture.

Ms Homewood said: “The retail industry is particularly well placed to benefit from Australia’s diverse workforce, with a lot of retailers having a deep connection to their local communities and a range of employment opportunities.

“Woolworths is providing an important example of the extraordinary difference that the industry can make to individual lives, including people from the most disadvantaged backgrounds. Everyone at MAX would like to congratulate Woolworths.”

MAX Solutions provides employment, health and training services to individuals and businesses across Australia.

The other employers shortlisted for the 2019 Employer of the Year Award were: Collins Foods Limited, AMA Group and Programmed.