Valvoline's Strategy: Building a Diverse Workforce from Within

A Culture of Diversity at Valvoline

Valvoline Inc. stands out not just for its automotive services but for its commitment to building a diverse workforce from within. In their 2024 Impact Report, the company highlighted significant strides made toward enhancing leadership diversity and promoting employee well-being. An impressive 57% of the company's executive officers are women, including key leadership roles such as President and CEO, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Legal Officer, and Chief Accounting Officer. This representation at the top is a testament to the empowering culture Valvoline fosters across its 11,000-strong workforce.

Empowering Voices: The HEART of Valvoline

Amberlynn Holder, a Franchise Business Consultant and member of POWER, Valvoline's women’s Employee Resource Group (ERG), encapsulates the company’s ethos by stating, “Throughout my career in the automotive industry, I’ve recognized the power of representation in shaping opportunities and inspiring future generations.” This illustrates how Valvoline actively creates spaces that not only amplify voices but also contribute to an inclusive environment conducive to personal and professional development.

From Service to Leadership

What sets Valvoline apart is its commitment to promoting from within, training team members who start in hourly positions for managerial roles. The structured training programs offer over 270 hours of onboarding within the first 60 days, followed by an additional 240 hours focusing on skills for future leadership roles. Last year alone, nearly 3,000 employees engaged in these development initiatives, achieving a total of 46,208 hours of training. This strategy not only supports career advancement but also fosters a loyal workforce that understands the company's core values.

Creating a Belonging Culture

Valvoline's dedication to fostering a sense of belonging is exemplified through its active ERGs, including POWER for women, PRIDE for LGBTQIA+ individuals, Veterans, AABERG for African-American/Black employees, and La Vamilia for Latino-Hispanic staff. The company prides itself on having 44% of its Board of Directors comprised of women and 34% of its management team being female, highlighting their commitment to equity at all organizational levels. These diversity measures are instrumental in shaping a workplace that celebrates various perspectives, thus enriching the company culture.

Holistic Employee Well-Being

Valvoline understands that a supportive work environment includes more than just career advancement. It offers wellness and financial support programs like Life Navigator, providing resources for emotional and financial well-being, and the Be Well platform, which offers 24/7 access to wellness resources. These initiatives emphasize the company’s commitment to fostering not just professional growth, but also the holistic health of its employees.

Conclusion: The Future of Diversity at Valvoline

As Valvoline continues to nurture its robust culture of belonging and diversity, it sets an inspiring example for other companies. The combination of promoting from within, fostering ERGs, and prioritizing employee well-being showcases a forward-thinking approach that inspires future generations. Valvoline’s techniques and commitment stand as compelling case studies for organizations striving to create inclusive work environments.