It’s hoped a new first of its kind survey will give a “much-needed” insight into diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the oil and gas industry.
Aberdeen-based trade body Oil and Gas UK (OGUK) has launched its anonymous and confidential questionnaire that will set a baseline for D&I in the sector, as well as acting as a catalyst for progress and change.
It’s accessible to all workers in the industry, including those who may have recently retired, are between jobs or are off work.
Developed by OGUK’s D&I Task Group, alongside Robert Gordon University, the survey will run until the end of the year, with results expected in the first quarter of 2021.
Difference of perspective and background are expected to be key in harnessing the ideas needed to develop a successful integrated energy mix, as well as to deliver on the commitments set out in Roadmap 2035.
Craig Shanaghey, president, operations services (Europe & Africa) at Wood, and D&I Task Group chairman, said: “The challenges we are facing as an industry require us to collectively think, behave, and act differently. At this critical juncture, we will only be able to turn those challenges into opportunities by unlocking the full potential of our talent pool; by creating the space for diversity of thought and perspective that are essential as we race to keep pace with the fast-changing world around us.
“As a Task Group, we recognise the broad acknowledgement that a move to better D&I means a better employee experience, it means a better culture, and it means better business. But the challenge is about how we drive that change – it is a complex and ever-evolving journey that requires constant focus and effort.
“The results of this survey will give us the much-needed insight to not only understand our collective baseline for diversity and inclusion, but more crucially, to be able to decipher the meaningful and impactful actions that can drive positive change and, ultimately, underpin our delivery of Roadmap 2035.”
Deirdre Michie, OGUK chief executive, said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of our industry-wide survey on diversity and inclusion. This is an important piece of work that will enable us to really understand where we are as an industry and where we need to get to, in order to attract and retain the talent we need to secure our future by providing solutions to some of the key challenges facing our sector in the short and longer term.
“It will ensure we are shining a spotlight on good examples of D&I practice, as well as initiatives to drive and improve inclusion and diversity.
“If we’re serious about realising the exciting opportunities in the UK energy sector then people must feel empowered to be themselves and this industry must attract and retain diverse people.
“D&I is critical to our efforts in delivering Roadmap 2035 – by fostering a diverse and inclusive working culture, we will secure and retain new talent, bring new perspectives and ideas to the fore and, ultimately, expand supply chain opportunities whilst continuing to contribute to the UK’s vital security of energy supply.”
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