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21 February 2012
Open Education Resources
The Future Newspaper

Is equity an issue at Naturally Baking?

By Susan Chang

Political Commentator

In a climate of equity in employment, why does Naturally Baking have no male team leaders in its warehouse?

Naturally Baking Ltd is a fine example of a local company, a good employer and a socially responsible organisation, but may be falling down in its employment equity policies.

Already employing around one hundred staff (and with expansion plans in place), Naturally Baking has four specialised teams in its warehouse but no male team leaders. What is going on here?

We asked Lynne Peters, General Manager of Naturally Baking, if their male employees were management potential. Lynne was quite upset at our interpretation, saying:

‘Of course we have equity in employment opportunities at Naturally Baking,’ Lynne said.

‘Equity is about ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and I think that we make a good job of this. In addition to the normal legal requirements, we have a number of initiatives to encourage minorities to apply for positions when they are available. In fact, we have an amazing variety of cultures within our organisation.’

But while there is a variety of assistance and opportunities for minorities at Naturally Baking, and the company has clearly made a real effort to encourage many staff members to advance, could it be that they have been less generous to their male employees, who are now a minority?

‘It is not the best place for a bloke these days,’ said one Naturally Baking employee who had just missed out on a team leader position.

‘Oh, the work is good, and they pay okay, but they have all these groups for minorities and women and disabled – you don’t get much chance when there is a job going. By the time they consider all the other options, the ordinary joker doesn’t get a look in.’

These comments may reflect the worker’s disappointment at not being successful. He could not offer any proof that he missed out simply because he was a man. Naturally Baking is generally regarded as a good employer that provides good opportunities for advancement.

The criticism surprised General Manager Lynne Peters.

‘I didn’t realise there was that perception among some of the staff,’ she said. ‘We have strong communication processes within our organisation, and I haven’t heard any feedback like that. Some employees who miss out on promotion don’t really understand why, so it could be that our communication with them needs to improve. We have transparent selection processes that reflect equity and fairness and I would hate to think that these have been compromised. I will look into this.’

We’ll keep an eye on the situation as it could have implications for all employees at Naturally Baking.

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