Bringing your whole self to work
When Laura first decided to transition, her partner Marie encouraged her to pursue a new career path with Allianz. Marie was confident that Allianz, the company she knew so well, would be a great fit for Laura’s skills, and that it would be a safe and supportive workplace.
“After six years with Allianz myself, I knew the culture and team was the right environment for her,” Marie shared. “I’ve always loved it here. Knowing that everyone is welcomed and accepted has always made me feel at home.”
Laura had been working in a trade environment, but joined Allianz as a Customer Service Specialist and immediately felt comfortable being her authentic self.
“Marie and I feel it’s important for us to share how safe and accepting Allianz has been,” Laura added.
Celebrating our humanity
Marie and Laura both work in our customer contact centre in Adelaide.
“I couldn’t speak more highly of the support and sense of belonging we both feel as we go on Laura’s gender identity journey together”, says Marie.
“There are a lot of benefits available for LGBTQ+ employees, from the fun and engaging things like drag queen trivia nights and our Pride Network, to entitlements and support - which includes Gender Affirmation Leave and a fantastic EAP (Employee Assistance Program) that offers counselling sessions to employees and their family.”
Laura agrees. "I wanted to work for Allianz because I knew that it was a really inclusive workplace where everyone is encouraged to bring their whole self to work. People here understand that we’re all different and have different experiences and backgrounds. Feeling safe to express my gender identity is very important to me as a transgender person.”
When your authenticity has impact
By sharing her experience, Laura hopes she can assure other transgender people that your gender identity and sexual orientation aren’t barriers to enjoying a rewarding career and working with supportive colleagues.
“I want to show people that it’s alright to be different, that you’re still able to work in great, supportive environments without fear of judgement, and continue building a career you love. I’m currently in the process of moving to a new role and I’m looking forward to learning a new skill and expanding my knowledge of the business.”
While her journey to understanding herself was challenging at times, looking back, Laura wouldn’t do anything differently in her life.
“I am who I am today because of all the experiences I’ve had in my life. I’m so lucky - Marie and I have a wonderful relationship, we’re parents, we’ve got great friends, we both enjoy the work we’re doing and working for the company we work for. We feel like we belong at Allianz, and you can’t beat that feeling, showing up to work every day. Living your truth can be daunting - but I wouldn’t change a single thing about it.”
We care about everything that makes you, you
Do you identify as LGBTQ+ or gender diverse? Would you like to discuss accessibility or workplace adjustments prior to applying? If you have any questions about working at Allianz, or if you'd like support with your application, we're here to help!
