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Putting Employees First for Success at AWWG

Carlos del Río, Vice President of Human Resources at AWWG

Carlos del Río, Vice President of Human Resources at AWWG

Being part of the competitive retail and sales industry, I consider myself fortunate to work for a company that stands out from the crowd. At AWWG, the global fashion group, which integrates the iconic brands Pepe Jeans London, Hackett and Façonnable, our unique approach to success is driven by a philosophy that resonates deeply with me: ‘employees come first.’

Indeed, in a sector where the spotlight shines predominantly on customers, this refreshing and revolutionary notion has been a game-changer for our organisation. I firmly believe that by prioritising employee well-being, we unlock the true potential of our company in our growth as a global fashion group.

Scaling HR to Greater Heights with Diversity, Inclusivity and Collaboration

AWWG's commitment to employee well-being is not just empty words; it's something we truly live by. Our health promotion strategy takes a comprehensive 360° approach, encompassing physical wellness, emotional and financial well-being, and social and professional welfare. It's not just about ticking the box; it's about understanding the unique needs of each team member and fostering a culture of inclusion and support.

Creating a thriving well-being culture has required a fundamental shift in organisational norms, and we've embraced this challenge wholeheartedly. Yet it goes far beyond offering a few social benefits; it's about weaving these values into the very fabric of our company. From essential health insurance to practical amenities like non-gender bathrooms and lactation rooms, we've crafted an environment where every employee feels valued and cared for.

But our commitment doesn't end with tangible actions; our values are the driving force behind it all, and inclusivity and collaboration are at the heart of our well-being philosophy. By celebrating diversity and empowering every team member, we've created a supportive atmosphere that fosters personal and professional growth.

Exceptional as a Way of Life

We've seen firsthand how happy and fulfilled employees translate into exceptional care for our customers, which is why we believe that investing in our people is an investment in the future of our company. With this in mind, our ultimate goal is to craft an exceptional employee experience, where well-being is not just a buzzword but a way of life.

This translates into prioritising our employees' health and happiness, recognising the profound impact it has on job satisfaction and stress management. We are committed to fostering a healthy lifestyle among our team, and to achieve this, we offer a range of benefits.

To support physical health, we provide gym discounts and comprehensive medical insurance, ensuring our employees have access to the resources they need to stay in peak condition. Regular check-ups and nutritious options in our canteen further reinforce our dedication to their well-being.

"By nurturing a culture that values each team member, we've transformed our organisation into a community of caring and dedicated individuals"

However, we understand that true well-being extends beyond the physical realm. Emotional health is equally crucial, and we encourage our employees to take time off during the summer to disconnect and enjoy quality family time. Additionally, we offer weeks of remote working to enable cherished moments with loved ones. We acknowledge the importance of work-life balance, and our flexible work hours exemplify this commitment. Employees have the freedom to choose their start and finish times, allowing them to tailor their workdays to suit their lifestyles and needs.

Thriving Together in the Ideal Workplace

Teamwork is the bedrock of our organization, and we spare no effort in creating a positive and collaborative working environment. We offer a nursery room at our offices, aware of the importance of supporting working parents. Our employees can also benefit from a range of training opportunities, empowering them to grow both personally and professionally.

To enhance productivity and focus, we reserve Fridays as a meeting-free day, allowing our team to concentrate on planning for the week ahead. Our multipurpose office spaces cater to various working preferences, ensuring that each individual feels comfortable and empowered.

We understand that true success isn't solely about the bottom line; it's about the individuals who make it all happen. By nurturing a culture that values each team member, we've transformed our organisation into a community of caring and dedicated individuals.

More than Just a Number

So, as we continue on this path of putting employees first, we are committed to continuous improvement and evolution. Resting on our laurels is not an option, we're determined to stay at the forefront of employee well-being practices. It's a testament to our long-term vision and unwavering commitment to creating a better future for everyone involved.

In an industry often characterized by a relentless pursuit of profits, AWWG wants to stand as a shining example of what's possible when employees truly come first. We serve as a reminder that success is about more than just numbers on a balance sheet; it's about the individual people behind those numbers. When our people thrive, our entire organization flourishes. I'm proud to be part of this incredible journey at AWWG, and I look forward to seeing where it leads us.