FedEx champions Inclusive Employment
FedEx Corporation, a global leader in transportation, e-commerce, and business services, has long been guided by its People-Service-Profit (P-S-P) philosophy. This principle highlights the belief that fostering a positive working environment leads to higher service quality, which, in turn, strengthens customer loyalty. A key part of this philosophy is FedEx's dedication to nurturing an inclusive workplace that values the talents of a diverse workforce and reflects the customers it serves.
At their Stansted location, FedEx was already employing people with disabilities but recognised the need for continuous progress. During Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training, they learned about ECL's Inclusive Employment programme through the British Association of Inclusive Employment (BASE). Given the challenges of recruiting staff in Stansted due to difficult transportation and unsocial working hours, FedEx saw inclusive recruitment as an opportunity to access a broader labour pool.
Through a partnership with ECL, FedEx welcomed K into their team — a decision that proved mutually beneficial. K gained paid employment where they could grow and flourish, while FedEx gained a dedicated and loyal employee.
Employing K is not only morally the right thing to do but also very rewarding and enlightening for the team. K’s colleagues have learned that while K might need a little extra time, they perform the job exceptionally well. Having K on board has made the team more mindful of their approach, and seeing K adapt and integrate so quickly has shattered any preconceptions.
Scott added, “We definitely need to expand inclusive employment. With ECL’s support, the process has been smooth, and we’re now considering implementing the programme at our Basildon and Chelmsford sites.”
FedEx demonstrated its commitment to K’s success by making thoughtful adjustments. Knowing the importance of a supportive environment, Scott placed K in the team of Toby Croucher, Manager Operations IP exports, who is known for his empathetic management style. Toby assigned team member Maxine, as K’s buddy to help them get familiar with their colleagues and work processes in the initial weeks. He also shortened K’s shifts to ease their transition during the busy pre-Christmas period — allowing them to gradually adapt.
“Having flexible shifts and making small accommodations worked well for K,” Toby noted. “They settled in quickly and have become very competent.”
Though K now works independently, ECL’s Inclusive Employment team continues to check in with Toby to offer ongoing support. “It’s incredibly reassuring to know ECL is there if we need them,” Toby said. “It makes us more confident as an employer.”
By championing diversity and inclusion, FedEx is strengthening its reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking employer and exemplifying the principle that when companies invest in people, everyone wins.