Nous Group, a leading management consultancy in Australia and the UK, is excited to announce the launch of Nous Proud, a network to support LGBTIQ+ inclusiveness.

Nous Proud brings together LGBTIQ+ Nousers and allies, building on Nous’ existing efforts to make Nous an inclusive workplace where all employees are comfortable to express their diversity.

Tim Orton, Managing Director of Nous Group, said: “At Nous we are committed to fostering an environment where people can bring their whole selves to work. We know people are happier, healthier and more productive when they can share their lives with their colleagues. That is why I am pleased to announce the launch of Nous Proud.”

Nous Proud’s founding network comprises 19 staff in a variety of roles across the Nous network of eight locations in Australia and the UK.

“Nous recruits people who show genuine care and respect for all people, which naturally makes it a great place to work for LGBTIQ people,” said Emily Scott, a Nous consultant in the Sydney office and co-founder of Nous Proud. “Nous Proud will foster greater opportunities to connect with LGBTIQ role models and peers across offices and provide a vehicle for us to play a more active role in improving the experiences of all LGBTIQ people.”

Emily is also CEO of Out for Australia, a volunteer organisation that seeks to support and mentor aspiring LGBTIQ+ professionals.

Tim Esmonde, a consultant in the Melbourne office and another co-founder of Nous Proud, said: “I’m thrilled that we now have Nous Proud – a true embodiment of the culture at Nous that enhances a sense of belonging for colleagues.”

Nous Proud has four major purposes:

  1. Provide direct support for LGBTIQ+ Nousers. The network will be a visible landing place for LGBTIQ+ employees, provide informal mentoring opportunities, offer visible LGBTIQ+ role models and support a social network.
  2. Promote LGBTIQ+ inclusive behaviours at Nous. The network will advocate for greater LGBTIQ+ diversity and inclusion and provide expertise through lived experiences to project teams on request to help them be more inclusive of LGBTIQ+ team members.
  3. Create a more inclusive society through our bold and engaging work. The network will be available to partner with clients to help them be more inclusive, help ensure relevant Nous projects consider LGBTIQ+ community needs and create together by listening carefully and working inclusively.
  4. Promote Nous externally as an LGBTIQ+ inclusive employer of choice. The network will be externally visible, provide representation of Nous at events and contribute to the Nous employee value proposition.

All staff members at Nous have been invited to become part of the Nous Proud network if they wish to play an active part in LGBTIQ+ inclusivity, including as allies. Nous staff have also been supported to follow the network’s lead and convene an affinity group with colleagues who would likewise benefit.

Nous has worked with many organisations in both the public and private sector improve their diversity and inclusion practices, and recently welcomed Deborah May, who has decades of experience in the area.

Nous has previously been recognised as an employer of choice, being named one of Australia’s top five workplaces in a recent Best Places to Work Study.