GE Power, a global leader in energy solutions, has been at the forefront of promoting inclusion and diversity within its organization. Leading the charge is Guillaume Spillemaecker, Executive Finance leader. In addition to his financial expertise, Guillaume is also a passionate advocate for disability inclusion, spearheading GE Power’s Disability Advocacy Network (DAN) ERG. In a recent interview, he shared insights into his personal background, GE Power’s commitment to supporting diverse employees, and the initiatives undertaken by the DAN to improve inclusion of people with disabilities.
A Diverse Background and Dedication to Inclusion
With a diverse professional background that spans operational roles across multiple countries, Guillaume brings a unique perspective to his current role as CFO. His journey with GE Power began when the company acquired Alstom, a French multinational manufacturer, where he had been working for 5 years. Reflecting on his past experiences, he explains, “I’ve had several different positions… With different operational experiences, I am feeling bringing more added values in a Finance role with different viewpoint “
Supporting Diverse Employees through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
GE Power demonstrates its commitment to inclusion by actively supporting Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which advocate for various causes within the organization. Guillaume highlights the importance of ERGs, stating, “All the employee resource groups advocate or lobby internally to promote the cause they defend i.e., a better inclusion.” He further emphasizes the significance of ERGs in recruiting, supporting, and ensuring representation of diverse employees, adding, “That for me is the purpose of the resource groups… to give a community to people and make sure people have a sense of belonging at the company.”
Personal Motivation and Leading the Disability Advocacy Network
Guillaume’s personal experiences with disabilities, including his son’s challenges and his family history, have guided him to become a leader in disability advocacy. Guillaume’s eldest child was born with Agenesis, which means he was born without a right forearm and hand. Sharing his motivations, he explains, “If an iconic company like GE… manages to bring inclusion and awareness at the employee level and if each employee and parents of kids have the right language for their kids, that would avoid the bullying that my son was seeing.” By fostering an inclusive environment, Guillaume aims to create a workplace where individuals with disabilities can thrive and feel supported. Through the Disability Advocacy Network, he provides a sense of belonging and advocates for recruitment, support, and long-term employment of individuals with disabilities.
Supporting Employees with Disabilities
DAN directly and indirectly supports employees with disabilities within GE Power in two critical ways. Guillaume highlights the network’s role in providing a community and internal support, ensuring psychological and emotional assistance for individuals facing similar challenges. Indirectly, GE Power supports employees with disabilities through various initiatives and actions. The company actively seeks to recruit individuals with disabilities, pushing for greater representation and inclusion. By advocating for the employment and sustained support of people with disabilities, GE Power indirectly fosters an environment that embraces diversity. Additionally, the company conducts awareness sessions and collaborates with external nonprofit organizations, such as the recent partnership with Vertical Harvest, a hydroponic farm that employs people with disabilities, as well as initiatives like an internship program for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These actions not only provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities, but also contribute to raising awareness and supporting local communities.
Reasonable Accommodation and Ensuring Employee Comfort
Guillaume believes that reasonable accommodation is essential to enable employees to be themselves at work and deliver at their maximum. GE Power’s commitment to this principle is reflected in their proactive approach to addressing individual needs. The company demonstrates its commitment by providing specific accommodations in all circumstances, such as specialized headsets for employees with hearing impairments, ensuring everyone can effectively communicate and contribute.
Improving Inclusion: Actions Led by the Disability Advocacy Network
The DAN is actively involved in various actions aimed at improving the inclusion of people with disabilities at GE Power. Guillaume emphasizes the importance of awareness, advocacy, and training for people leaders and employees. By conducting sessions that simulate different disabilities, such as utilizing specialized glasses to temporarily impair vision and navigating the office environment, the network aims to promote empathy and inclusion within the workforce. Additionally, the DAN collaborates with HR, legal, and deployment teams to define accessibility standards and ensure global compliance.
GE Power’s Celebrations during Disability Pride Month
During Disability Pride Month in July, GE Power engages in various activities to celebrate and raise awareness. Guillaume highlights the establishment of local action hubs in different regions, fostering collaboration with nonprofit organizations and universities to promote awareness and training. The company also participates in the Disability:In survey to assess its progress in welcoming and supporting individuals with disabilities. Guillaume proudly shares, “GE started with a 60 out of 100 last year. With all the improvement we did in the past 12 months, we went from 60 to 100 this year. Additionally, GE Power participates in the annual Disability:in conference to further commitment to inclusion.
Applying for Jobs at GE Power
With a strong belief in the power of diverse profiles and the benefits they bring to individuals and the success of the company as a whole, GE Power promotes an inclusive mindset. The network of over 1,300 employees dedicated to supporting people with disabilities ensures a sense of belonging and assistance for prospective candidates. By fostering awareness, embracing diversity, and striving to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities globally, GE Power sets an example for other companies to follow.
Guillaume encourages candidates with disabilities to apply for positions at GE Power, emphasizing that the company aims to build a pool of candidates who embrace the value of inclusion, not only for individuals with disabilities but also for other underrepresented groups. The online job application process welcomes individuals with disabilities, providing an opportunity for them to pursue their desired roles. Take the first step and be part of a company that values diversity, inclusion, and growth by applying here.
