Business and Employee Resource Groups (BERGs)
Challenge
At Harley-Davidson, we believe in creating and sustaining an engaging, diverse and inclusive workplace where every employee gets to bring their whole self to work. We launched our version of affinity groups and networks, called Business and Employee Resource Groups (BERGs), in 2013. We wanted these groups to be connected to the business while also being a resource for employees.
Actions
We leveraged the 4 C Model (Community, Commerce, Career and Culture) by Robert Rodriguez to provide a framework for our BERGs to align their actions and activities. In addition, we staffed each BERG with a Senior Leader as a sponsor. This provided the right level of oversight to help BERGs get the traction they needed to be successful.
Outcomes
Since 2013, we have launched 7 BERGs (Women, African American, Latina, Veterans/Military, Asian, LGBT+ and Young Professional). The BERGs are engaged in activities that tie to our Harley-Davidson Foundation and benefit our communities, they help support business initiatives aligned with our strategy and take part in culture and career building events that inspire growth and development for their members.
Quote
Freedom is personal. When we think about our company Purpose to fulfill dreams of personal freedom and as we all see the meaning we bring to a world of individuals who use Harley-Davidson to make a statement about who they are, diversity is as powerful an idea in our business as you can get. With our powerful purpose, we are striving to be the most customer-led company on the planet. We’ll only truly get there with a genuine curiosity and passion for the great diversity in our world and by reflecting that in all we do, how we act and what we believe.