Metro Bank triumphs with AFC Social Award win

Metro Bank’s dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace and its commitment to community engagement were recently recognised at the Asset Finance Connect (AFC) Summer Awards 2024. The bank received the AFC Social Award, a testament to its ongoing efforts to create a positive social impact.

Nova Everidge, Director of Asset Finance at Metro Bank, shared her insights on what this accolade means for the organisation and how it aligns with their core values.

Winning the AFC Social Award is a milestone for Metro Bank Asset Finance, symbolising the industry’s acknowledgment of their hard work and dedication. Nova Everidge expressed, “It means a great deal to Metro Bank Asset Finance to win the AFC Social Award. Metro Bank works hard to create an inclusive workplace and prioritises giving back to the local communities it serves through its Day to Amaze volunteering program. The Asset Finance team fully embraces this element of the Metro Bank culture, and to receive industry recognition (judged by industry peers) is a real honour.”

The role of company purpose and culture in talent attraction

Metro Bank’s strong sense of purpose and inclusive culture are pivotal in attracting and retaining young professionals. Everidge explained, “We work hard to make sure our colleagues always feel valued for what they do and supported to get to where they want to be. Our inclusive approach encompasses our colleague network groups for ethnicity and culture, women, LGBTQ+, family, and wellbeing, and we also run regular mentoring and apprenticeship programs.”

Promoting diversity and inclusion

Metro Bank supports diversity through five inclusion networks: Mbrace, Women on Work (WOW), Mpride, Mfamily, and Mbody. These networks are designed to promote equity and inclusion across the organisation.

Everidge elaborated, “At Metro Bank, we strive to create an environment where everyone can be themselves – regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation – and we are proud of our inclusive approach, which actively celebrates diversity. Our five colleague inclusion networks support our colleagues and encourage diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout Metro Bank.”

The importance of an inclusive workplace

Creating an inclusive workplace environment is essential for Metro Bank. Everidge highlighted, “At Metro Bank, we want every single colleague to feel that they belong, are included, accepted, and valued. For example, Women on Work (WOW), our colleague network dedicated to gender equality, is passionate about women’s health and making sure that all our colleagues have the support they need. Menopause Cafes are an important part of this, a virtual monthly catch-up where colleagues going through menopause can get together to share their experiences and tips.”

Metro Bank’s commitment to diversity and inclusion not only enhances the well-being of its employees but also strengthens the business. “Our commitment to being a leader in diversity and inclusion helps us to bring out the best in our colleagues, attract new talent, thrive as a business, and of course, create more loyal customers,” added Everidge.

A memorable awards evening

Reflecting on the AFC Summer Awards evening, Everidge noted, “It was a fantastic evening spent with industry peers, colleagues, and broker partners. Full of excellent food with a great atmosphere – one of the best industry events we’ve been to in years!”