PMI has received the Swiss LGBTI-Label award for the second time, in recognition of our company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
This label is a mark of commendation for organizations based in Switzerland that are working with purpose to deliver equality for LGBTQ+ people.
Like all diverse groups, supporting the LGBTQ+ community comprises a significant part of our business strategy—not only during Pride Month, but throughout the year.
Accepting the award for Philip Morris International (PMI), Mimi Kurniawan, our Chief Diversity Officer, said: “Celebrating our differences enables us to cultivate a workplace where all employees are championed, valued, respected, heard, and able to be the best versions of themselves.
“From the LGBTQ+ community to all other minority groups, fostering an inclusive environment will help us unlock the unique perspectives of every employee and, in turn, the innovation and collaboration required for PMI to achieve its smoke-free ambitions.”
Beyond a simple badge of honor
Stefano Volpetti, PMI’s President of Smoke-Free Inhaled Products and Chief Consumer Officer, is the executive sponsor of our Stripes Employee Resource Group (ERG)—the voice for LGBTQ+ employees in all PMI affiliates.
Stripes creates a continuous conversation across our organization to support an inclusive, respectful, and supportive culture.
“This recognition goes beyond a simple badge of honor,” Stefano said.
“It is a testimony of our unwavering commitment to creating a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to bring their best, authentic selves to work, regardless of any characteristics—visible or invisible—that make them who they are.”
“At PMI, we understand that the diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences is what fuels creativity, innovation, and progress—and that includes LGBTQ+ voices.”
Setting an example
In a message on LinkedIn, Swiss LGBTI-Label praised all certified companies for their “hard work and dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all employees, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.”
In a message on LinkedIn, Swiss LGBTI-Label praised all certified companies for their “hard work and dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all employees, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.”
“This recognition is something we’ve worked very hard for,” said Nikki Symmons, Stripes Global Co-Lead. “We are building strong community foundations internally, working closely with our LGBTQ+ colleagues, supporters, and allies to create a fully inclusive global company.”
This year, in celebration of Pride month, Stripes ERG launched a global campaign—“Do it with Pride”—which called on our colleagues across the world to celebrate their true, authentic, and brilliant selves.
PMI has a clear vision to foster an environment where everyone feels safe and comfortable to be their true selves at work. The company is committed to building a culture and workplace reflecting the world’s diversity to deliver our vision of a smoke-free future.
