Global Diversity and Inclusion
Learning & development

We offer a broad range of professional training and education for the career advancement and leadership development of our employees. These programs are designed to help our employees find their purpose, pursue their passion, achieve their aspirations and accelerate business performance through stimulating work assignments, structured learning opportunities, People and Business Resource Group-sponsored programs and diverse work experiences.

Employees have access to our expansive library covering a wide range of special interest topics in multiple languages through a variety of top learning and development resources. In 2020, more than 4 million learning activities were completed by our employees, consultants and partners.

We are committed to cultivating the growth of our managers and senior leaders through virtual and in-classroom learning for new and experienced managers and senior leaders. Tuition reimbursement is available globally to eligible employees who, through their own initiation and desire for development, participate in accredited educational programs. Employees are encouraged to take on stretch assignments that maximize their learning experience.

We’re enhancing our longstanding investments in accelerated leadership development initiatives—specifically for women globally and underrepresented ethnic groups (UEGs). These initiatives now include developing skills highly applicable to future global challenges, which are informed by the perspectives of these underserved groups.

Connections Mentoring Program

The BMS Connections Mentoring Program is a group mentoring program led by Global Diversity & Inclusion and exclusively designed for BMS employees who are members of the People and Business Resource Groups (PBRGs). The Connections Mentoring Program is an important part of the GD&I objective of creating a 21st century workforce that is powerfully diverse and broadly inclusive. By leveraging mentoring to build relationships and learn from the diverse perspectives of others, BMS fosters an inclusive environment where all employees can collaborate and contribute to their full potential.

The objectives of the program are to enhance and accelerate the development of diverse leadership capabilities at BMS via:

• Broadening and enhancing the mentee’s business perspective and understanding of BMS’ culture.
• Providing valuable and objective feedback that will further develop and enhance BMS’ leaders.
• Passing on successful approaches, knowledge, and best practices throughout BMS.
• Creating ongoing and intentional learning opportunities.
• Establishing a global network of engaged, committed leaders.

BMS data analytics for participants in the Connections Mentoring Program show a positive impact on key measures of promotion and engagement. Specifically, PBRG employee members who participated in the Connections Mentoring Program experienced promotions at a 28% higher rate than those PBRG employees who did not participate in the program. In addition, those who participate in Connections Mentoring have a 4x higher perception of BMS as an inclusive organization than those who did not join the program.

Note: all data in this section are of year-end 2020 unless otherwise indicated.