For Glen Scarlett, Commercial Director at Pernod Ricard Australia, creating a more respectful and inclusive industry starts with something simple: treating others well.
Launched by the Drinks Association Embrace Difference Council, the Respect in Drinks Charter is an industry-wide initiative that sets clear expectations around respect, safety, inclusion and equity across all levels of the drinks sector. It aims to drive lasting cultural change by encouraging member organisations to champion positive behaviours, hold one another accountable and lead by example.
Glen sees the Charter as an important tool to elevate the industry as a whole. “It’s commonly remarked that the best results come from diverse teams, and while I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment, I believe that cultural diversity must also be met with a foundation of mutual respect in order for people to truly thrive,” he says. “The Respect in Drinks Charter underscores this and the role that we all play in ensuring a safe and just community, both in and outside of the drinks industry.”
“Creating a culture of respect starts with each and every one of us. Whether you’re a supplier, customer or partner within the industry, how you show up and treat those around you matters.”
A recent global initiative at Pernod Ricard that invites people to Stop, Think and Act is a great way for people to help create a workplace where everyone feels safe, supported and valued, says Glen.
“My personal commitment in this space is to promote a supportive environment where everyone can feel comfortable to reach out for help,” he adds. “Asking for help often shows up in those quiet, informal moments, so I will look to create opportunities where those around me can feel comfortable and safe to reach out.”
Glen also believes that flexibility is another tool for creating an inclusive workplace culture. “Flexibility looks different to everyone and so, in order to be truly inclusive, I encourage my teams to build their jobs around their personal life, and not the other way around,” Glen explains.
Looking ahead, Glen hopes the Respect in Drinks Charter becomes deeply embedded across the industry. “I would love this initiative to become embedded in our industry so that we can hold a mirror up to others in order to become mutually accountable,” he says. “Having a recognised Charter means we can more easily discuss the themes and topics we observe, and it gives us something to anchor our conversations and actions back to.”
By driving collective commitment and action, Glen and others across the drinks industry are helping to build a future where respect isn’t just a value but it’s the industry standard.
The Drinks Association supports and encourages compliance by its members with the ‘Respect in Drinks Charter’ but makes no representations, expressly or by inference, in relation to the conduct of our members or their compliance with the Charter. The only representation made by the Association is that our member has signed the Charter. Any complaint or claim arising from any alleged breach of the Charter must be made directly to the member organisation.