A&K Travel Group Ltd. has announced that it will now provide a minimum of 18 weeks of paid parental leave for all new parents, regardless of gender. According to the company, it implemented the new policy in an effort to provide opportunities for parents to bond with their new babies, create a level playing field in the workplace and invest in the overall well-being of its employees.
By providing equal opportunities for parents to bond with their new children, we are not only investing in the well-being of our employees, but also taking a significant step toward leveling the playing field for all of our employees.
Our Analysis: A&K Is Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Workplace
By extending leave time for new parents, A&K is demonstrating a commitment to its employees, giving them valuable time with their newborns, as well as an opportunity to focus on their own physical and mental wellness during a time that can be as challenging as it is rewarding. The policy is also noteworthy for offering the same leave opportunities to all parents, a progressive position that doesn’t favor one gender over another. This investment in its workforce will no doubt help A&K retain current employees and attract talent in the future.
What They Are Saying: A&K Is Investing in its Workforce
“We are incredibly proud to be at the forefront of the travel industry in offering this progressive parental leave package,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “By providing equal opportunities for parents to bond with their new children, we are not only investing in the well-being of our employees, but also taking a significant step toward leveling the playing field for all of our employees."
“We have been evaluating the benefits offered to our employees around the world and have introduced the first of what we hope will be many initiatives to improve our global offerings and cement our position as the No. 1 travel brand to work for,” added Kim Berman, chief human resources officer of A&K Travel Group.
Vanessa McGovern, chief sales & marketing officer at Gifted Travel Network, was part of a conversation that inspired Levis to change A&K's policy.
“It was evident from my first encounter with Cristina Levis that she is a woman who listens and moves mountains," McGovern said of the interaction and ensuing policy update. "Expanding the family leave policy was not only the right thing to do for [A&K's] employees, but it also creates a ripple effect for other companies to follow suit. Putting people first in your company policies is what creates loyalty, and I am inspired by how Cristina took inspired action so quickly after one lunch conversation.”
