The firm has already launched the programme in Hong Kong and Singapore, but will look to launch it across the region in 2018.

Citigroup’s Asia-Pacific Markets and Securities Services (MSS) business has launched a programme to retain more female employees post-maternity across its operation. 

The programme has already started in Hong Kong and Singapore and is planned for further roll out across the region in 2018. Citi Maternity Matters, as the programme is called, aims to support MSS female staff during and after their maternity leave. Also, the firm said it will complement the infrastructure already in place to support working mothers at Citigroup.

During workshops in Hong Kong and Singapore, managers from various MSS businesses had the opportunity to learn about the new framework. These included:

- The clear business case for diversity and female talent including an extension from 10 to 14 weeks for maternity leave in Hong Kong and flexible working options for returning mothers;
- The manager’s role and how best they can support their employees during and after maternity and ensure a successful transition back to work and managing the work/life balance with increased flexible working options;
- More detailed and updated policy information across the 17 markets Citigroup operates across Asia-Pacific;
- Manager  and employee toolkits – a one stop shop for all information relating to policies, the support Citigroup will provide during pregnancy, maternity leave and on the employees return to work; and
- Maternity coaching and a buddy programme to support employees both during and after maternity

“Research and experience both confirm that when a company embraces diversity, the most talented people are not just attracted to joining the company, but are also much more productive and motivated to stay,” said said Julia Raiskin, head of investor services, markets and securities services, Asia-Pacific. “Maintaining a truly diverse environment has been proven to be a leading indicator of the quality of our culture in addition to being an effective way of connecting to an equally diverse client base.” 

The firm said that the programme is specific to the markets and securities services business at the moment, and it may be rolled out in other businesses over time. This publication has asked whether similar initiatives will apply in areas affecting wealth management and private banking at Citigroup, and may update in due course.

The Citigroup comes as the financial sector looks to become more inclusive by catering for women to become part of the sector, and increase the numbers of women in the industry. This publication recently reported that Goldman Sachs had set out targets for closing off gender gaps in recruitment and career advancement.