NN Group wins the diversity and inclusion (D&I) excellence award for its focus on five different D&I dimensions: gender, generations, cultural diversity, LGBTI+, and neuro and physical diversity.

The company has also committed to self-formulated goals to promote and increase D&I in the workplace by signing the Diversity Charter.

"At NN we want to do more, and we want to do better," says Monique Pennings, D&I specialist at NN Group.

"Therefore, we develop long-term plans that effect meaningful change. We want to take part in creating a more equitable society. And we will know when we are on track if our beliefs are clearly reflected in how we work with our people, our customers and our communities."

During the past 12 months, the firm held a neurodiversity pride day, dedicated to celebrating neurodiversity and the added value of people who are neurodivergent, as well as acting as a partner, at Rotterdam Pride.

NN Group was also included in the Bloomberg Gender Equality Index for the fifth year in a row.

In recent years, the insurer has looked to strengthen its internal D&I efforts through training sessions, open to all employees, on unconscious bias and sessions on topics including female empowerment.

"Collaboration is key for D&I and therefore we talk with people and not about them," says Pennings.

"Different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds create a stronger and creative work environment, which are vital in shaping and implementing NN's D&I actions."

As for wider D&I implementation across the insurance sector and beyond, Pennings stresses the importance of raising awareness.

"Knowledge creates an understanding, which spreads and inspires others to found, or join, a network. This mindset should be applied universally, not specifically to the insurance sector. D&I is about everyone and breaking down barriers to create a safe environment, regardless of sector."