Northrop Grumman noted for diversity

Published April 26, 2013 by Jessica Sabbath

Defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. has been recognized as one of the top 50 companies in U.S. for diversity.

Northrop Grumman was listed at No. 29 on Diversity Inc’s Top 50 Companies for Diversity list. Last year, the Falls Church-based company was listed at No. 42.

Northrop Grumman was they only Virginia-based company to make the list, which was created by surveying 893 companies.

DiversityInc noted Northrop Grumman’s focus on the metrics to which it holds its executives accountable, diversity programs for women, black, Latino, Asian workers, along with LGBT workers and people with disabilities.

“We strongly believe that creating a workplace that values diversity and inclusion is fundamental to generating innovation, increasing productivity, boosting engagement and improving profitability,” Sandra Evers-Manly, vice president, corporate responsibility, Northrop Grumman, and president, Northrop Grumman Foundation, said in a statement. “Our customers count on us to provide affordable and innovative solutions to their most vexing problems, and our diverse, engaged and skilled workforce allows us to meet this challenge.”

Here is DiversityInc.’s description:

“The defense contractor has strong accountability factors for diversity and inclusion. The diversity focus is included in a suite of metrics for which executives are accountable. Diversity is one of six non-financial metrics that impact compensation. The diversity metrics are designed to “raise the bar” on targets, focusing on demographics and measuring against the available talent pool. The goals are increased annually.

Northrop Grumman has been actively working on talent-development initiatives for women, Blacks, Latinos and Asians, as well as LGBT people and people with disabilities. The company hires a significant number of veterans and has a program called Operation IMPACT to help them transition to civilian life. The company also has a variety of initiatives to recruit people with disabilities, including at the college level. The USBLN (US Business Leadership Network) last year named Northrop Grumman its Supplier Diversity Company of the Year.

Supplier diversity is very important at this company, with the CEO’s office providing strategic direction and overseeing efforts. Vendors must be certified by third-party organizations, including USBLN and the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. The company provides training, mentoring and scholarships as part of its supplier-diversity initiative.”