ZEISS India Introduces ‘Reignite’ Program to Support Women in Returning to Work

In a significant move aimed at empowering women professionals, ZEISS, a leader in optics and optoelectronics, has launched its latest initiative known as the “ZEISS Reignite” program. This program supports women looking to reenter the workforce after a career break, reaffirming ZEISS India’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and enhancing women’s representation in the workplace.

Overview of the ‘Reignite’ Initiative

The first phase of the ZEISS Reignite program will run for six months and is strategically based in Bengaluru. It is designed for experienced women professionals who have taken a career break for more than six months and possess at least two years of prior professional experience. The program aims to provide hybrid work opportunities nationwide across all divisions of ZEISS India, encompassing both technical and non-technical roles.

Commitment to Women’s Career Growth

Santana Ramakrishnan, Chief Human Resources Officer of ZEISS India, commented, “At ZEISS, we believe that talent and potential are not defined by career breaks. We understand that many women step away from their careers for personal milestones like marriage or motherhood – but that should never mean an end to their professional aspirations.” She emphasized the organization’s commitment to facilitating pathways for women to return to work by offering opportunities, mentorship, and flexibility.

Embedding Inclusion in Corporate Culture

ZEISS India has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusion, reflected in the approximately 55% representation of women at its India Mass Manufacturing facility (INMA). This noteworthy statistic highlights how inclusive practices can enhance team productivity and promote a positive working environment. The company actively supports gender inclusivity through:

• Diverse hiring practices
• Flexible working arrangements
• Robust Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) training
• Various gender-inclusive programs

Moreover, ZEISS emphasizes open communication and feedback through dedicated employee forums, creating a trusting atmosphere where every individual can thrive both personally and professionally.

About ZEISS Group

ZEISS is a globally recognized technology company specializing in optics and optoelectronics. In the last fiscal year, the ZEISS Group reported an annual revenue of €10.9 billion, operating in diverse sectors such as Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, and Consumer Markets.