EY Japan has emerged as a leader in promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce, with a particular focus on the neurodivergent community. Through a comprehensive reporting and measurement process, the company has gained valuable insights into the benefits of embracing neurodiversity and has taken strategic actions to foster a more inclusive workplace.
Reporting and Measurement Process:
EY Japan’s commitment to neurodivergent inclusion is rooted in its robust reporting and measurement process. The company conducts monthly reports to track progress towards diversity goals and assess the inclusive culture within the organization. While annual reporting is mandatory for government compliance, EY Japan goes above and beyond by analysing the data to gain deeper insights into the experiences of its neurodiverse employees.
All of the employees have the option of self-disclose their disability status to the HR department. This comprehensive data collection enables EY Japan to make informed decisions and implement targeted initiatives to support its neurodiverse talent.
Insights into Action:
In June 2022, EY Japan launched its Diverse Abilities Center to enhance the employment opportunities and working environment for individuals within the neurodivergent community who have been diagnosed with mental and developmental disabilities.
Since launching, the centre has welcomed 43 neurodiverse members, with 12 individuals now working across various service lines within the company. The center provides a supportive environment where individuals can experiment with flexible work styles to suit their unique needs.
Through its reporting and analysis, EY Japan has uncovered significant insights into the positive impact of the Diverse Abilities Center. Despite the survey being voluntary, there is a high response rate among employees within the center. The data reveals impressive levels of satisfaction and engagement:
- 92% said they are “able to be themselves”.
- 92% said, “I feel supported from the people I work with”.
- 100% said, “I am proud to be an employee of EY”.
These findings highlight the success of EY Japan’s initiatives in creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for its neurodiverse talent.
Find out more about EY’s Diverse Abilities Center.
Strategic Initiatives:
Armed with these insights, EY Japan has implemented a holistic approach to diversity and inclusion, with a focus on supporting its neurodivergent workforce. The company has taken several strategic actions:
- Expansion of Talent Pool: EY Japan has actively recruited neurodivergent talent, recently welcoming 14 new members to the Diverse Abilities Center. This initiative aims to leverage the unique skills and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals across various roles within the organization.
- Establishment of Peer Support Network: EY has established an Ability Ambassadors network, comprising 100 representatives from diverse backgrounds across the Asia-Pacific region. This network provides peer support and advocacy to break down stigma surrounding different abilities, fostering a more inclusive working environment. Additionally, EY Japan has an Employee Resource Group (ERG) dedicated to people with disabilities and their allies, with similar ERGs existing in every EY region. Furthermore, EY has a Neurodiversity Community open to all EY people, with an ambition to create an environment where neurodiversity is understood and supported, thinking differently is valued and everyone can play to their strengths – for our people, our clients and society. EY Japan staff are members of the community and actively participate in events, sharing loved experiences and learnings from initiatives in EY Japan with other EY countries.
- Educational Campaigns: EY has launched various educational initiatives, such as Neurodiversity November, a month-long campaign focused on raising awareness and fostering allyship within the workplace. EY Japan conducts Neurodiversity Week training, sessions for managers to understand reasonable accommodations (now a legal requirement in Japan since April 2024), and year-round sessions to educate and increase awareness. EY recognizes that diverse thinking brings value both internally and in terms of the ability to better support customers.
- Advocacy and Thought Leadership: EY Japan’s leadership, including Yoshihisa Kato, Director and Diverse Abilities Center Leader, actively participates in conferences and events to raise awareness and advocate for neuro-inclusion best practices. By sharing insights and experiences, EY Japan contributes to the advancement of disability and neurodiversity rights across the region.
Through its data-driven approach, strategic initiatives, and unwavering commitment to neurodiversity inclusion, EY Japan sets a powerful example for organizations worldwide. By embracing the unique strengths and perspectives of its neurodiverse talent, the company is not only driving innovation but also cultivating a culture of belonging that benefits all employees.
