In the early stages of our company developing a diversity and inclusion strategy, it was recognized that Compass Minerals needed to provide an outlet for employees with common interests and issues to network and build community. The rate of employees leaving within the first year of employment was an issue. We believed employee resource groups could help lower this rate by providing the connectedness needed to encourage retention.   

We introduced LINK (Leading, Inspiring, Networking and Knowing) employee resource groups to make a difference. They bring employees together to address issues impacting our business. They bring opportunities for networking and getting to know other like-minded employees beyond an employee’s immediate team or department. And, in the process, they bring enhanced inclusion and employee engagement that helps create opportunities and drive business results.

Women’s LINK was formed to enhance personal and professional growth of women in a traditionally male-dominated industry of mining and manufacturing. The programming provides coaching and mentoring resources, raises awareness of and helps influence company policies and benefits, and reduces isolation.

Emerging Leaders LINK was then created as an outlet for networking, learning and development, and engagement in the community. This group is open to all employees, but primarily boasts a membership of professionals within the first 12 years of their career.  

Compass Minerals now has approximately 300 participants in our LINK groups across several of our sites and our turnover rate among female employees has decreased 9% since Women’s LINK was introduced.   

Mary Frontczak, Chief Legal and Administrative Officer and Corporate Secretary