Global perspective: Why IDPD is important
Voices of Inclusion: What our colleagues say
We asked colleagues across Munich Re Group two questions:
- What does an inclusive and accessible workplace mean to you?
- How do you experience support or contribute to accessibility and inclusion?
Support & Flexibility
Abhisek Mukherjee – Programme Manager, Munich Re
“A culture of enablement, empathy and support.”
Munich Re has been extremely supportive in my care-giving journey, as I care for my 82-year-old, completely deaf mother. It provides me with an understanding, supportive and flexible environment to ensure that not only do I succeed as a carer but also continue to remain a successful Munich Re employee. While working for Munich Re, my personal experience in this regard has been truly excellent.
Agnieszka Szamal – Specialist Marketing and PR, ERGO
“Nothing is impossible.”
Working at ERGO Hestia has given me many opportunities for growth, both professionally and personally. Through new challenges and goals, I've been able to increase my self-confidence, believing that nothing is impossible. An inclusive, accessible workplace is one where people can be fully themselves. It’s a space where my disability is neither an obstacle nor what defines me.
Belonging & Identity
Álvaro Hermosa – Digital Analytics and Positioning, ERGO
“Our opinion matters.”
Be part of Munich Re Group / ERGO means to even with my disability I can push society forward. Show to the world that people with disabilities are here to be part of a global change. An accessible workplace allows me to feel completely part of the team. Gives me freedom to be 100% myself.
Agnieszka Szamal – Specialist Marketing and PR, ERGO
“A space where people can be fully themselves.”
It’s a place that provides the specific solutions and accommodations I need, offered with natural sensitivity rather than out of obligation.
Advocacy & Awareness
Peter Wittmann – Referent UX-Research, ERGO
“We are strong together.”
We create a space for mutual understanding and show solutions. We are the voice of those who experience challenges and show others what it is like to deal with them. Colleagues' courage to share their challenges and receive only positive feedback is invaluable.
Antje Herber – Works Council Member, ERGO
“You are not alone.”
The Inclusion@ERGO network plays an important role in raising awareness of disability and caregiving. We offer monthly blog posts sharing personal stories and provide a platform for exchange. We are proud of our interactive PDF “Guide to Difficult Situations,” which compiles all support services in one place.
Suzanne LaMaine – ERG Co-Chair, Munich Re
“Fostering dialogue around disability-related topics.”
The enAble ERG was formed to raise awareness about visible and invisible disabilities. Through quarterly ‘Listen & Share’ sessions and accessibility tool demos, we create safe spaces and practical solutions. We are proud of our Disability Awareness training, which taught us person-first language and provided a toolkit for future initiatives.
Innovation for Accessibility
Seila Hõbe – Head of Office Administration Group, ERGO
“Integration and education through experience.”
Our Estonian HQ office includes smart elevators with Braille and voice communication, height-adjustable desks, and barrier-free restrooms. Lithuania and Latvia implement “DUOday” and “Different Shoes Day,” giving people with disabilities the chance to try different roles and educating us as an employer.
James McCreery – End User Delivery Manager, Munich Re
“Technical options for engagement during trying times.”
We presented accessibility options in Microsoft Office, including color filters, narration, and dictation tools. One of the most rewarding aspects has been helping colleagues stay engaged during medical limitations by facilitating technical solutions.
Michael Kotauczek – Continuity and IT-Governance, ERGO
“Accessibility as a natural part of planning.”
In our projects, accessibility is integrated from the start. The ERGO Center renovation created ergonomic, barrier-free workplaces and introduced automatic door systems and inclusive elevator controls.
Trusted Support Networks
Nicole Bolm – SBV Representative, Munich Re
“A safe and trusted space.”
The SBV and KSBV are the first points of contact for colleagues seeking advice or support. We help with everything from workplace adjustments to personal matters, always with strict confidentiality.
Axel Schmidt – KSBV Representative, Munich Re Group
“Disability knows no borders.”
The KSBV connects local representative bodies across Munich Re Group, promotes exchange, and coordinates initiatives to ensure equal opportunities globally. We advocate for uniform standards and break down barriers throughout the group.
Additionally to our voices, McKinsey research shows that organisations prioritising inclusion and diversity report higher employee engagement and retention, which directly impacts organisational health and resilience. So Inclusion is not just about representation- it’s a critical enabler of business performance and long-term growth.
And the stories you’ve read - from Abhisek’s experience of flexibility, to Álvaro’s belief that “our opinion matters,” to Peter’s reminder that “we are strong together” - show that inclusion is definitely not abstract. It’s lived every day through empathy, advocacy, and innovation.
As Agnieszka Szamal put it:
“An inclusive, accessible workplace is one where people can be fully themselves. It’s a space where my disability is neither an obstacle nor what defines me.”
Her words remind us that true inclusion means creating environments where everyone can thrive without barriers.
Read more on our webpage for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or visit our career website to get to know more about our company.
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