Diversity: Equal treatment and opportunities for all

For us at Fresenius diversity is an indispensable part of our identity, which we aim to build and preserve. That is why we promote a culture in which every employee is treated equally and given the same opportunities to grow professionally and perform at their best. While we embrace equal treatment and opportunities across our Group, we acknowledge that there are situations for which a Group concept is not the right approach. Therefore, it is our aspiration to develop HR concepts which encompass unique situations and individuals. 

At Fresenius, we promote equal treatment and opportunities for all and consciously oppose discrimination of all kinds. This extends equally to employees, business partners, and patients. We work in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Our dealings with each other are open, fair, and appreciative. We do not tolerate insults, humiliation, or harassment in our daily work, neither internally nor externally. Our managers have a special responsibility in this respect and act as role models. These values and our aspirations with regard to diversity are laid down in the Fresenius Code of Conduct, which is binding for all employees. This Code makes our stance clear and lays the foundation of our cooperation and corporate culture.

Our employees are as diverse as the work we do

We are convinced that combining different perspectives, opinions, experiences, cultures and values enables us to harness the potential that will make our company even more successful. Therefore, we foster international and interdisciplinary cooperation throughout the Group. 

The diversity of our markets and locations is also reflected in the workforce of our businesses. In our home market in Germany, we have employees of around 150 nationalities. In order to integrate equal opportunities into all processes and workflows and to overcome barriers or unconscious bias, the Group and its operating companies implement development concepts that are adapted to the requirements of their respective business models and regions.

How we handle discrimination incidents

Information about violations of the principles of the Fresenius Code of Conduct and other possible misconduct can be reported via various notification systems, e.g., online and in various languages – anonymously, if necessary. All information is carefully examined, and appropriate action taken in accordance with the results of the investigation. Depending on the type and severity of misconduct, sanctions such as actions under employment, civil, or criminal law can be imposed. After finishing the investigation, measures that prevent future misconduct, or at least make it more difficult, are implemented.