Shabdita Sakarde
Head of Communications, Carelon Global Solutions Ireland
Aoife Fitzgerald
Head of Compliance, Carelon Global Solutions Ireland
Shabdita Sakarde and Aoife Fitzgerald of Carelon Global Solutions Ireland discuss how the company creates a thriving workplace culture through dynamic leadership and women’s wellbeing initiatives.
What is your current role like?
Shabdita Sakarde (SS): As the Head of Communications, I am committed to driving business growth and innovation through the effective coordination and management of diverse initiatives, including branding and marketing. Furthermore, I engage in strategic sponsorships and foster cross-functional collaboration to enhance organisational visibility and operational excellence.
Aoife Fitzgerald (AF): With over 15 years in compliance and risk management, I lead a team in embracing technological advancements while managing processes and navigating regulatory changes. My dynamic role involves monitoring, auditing, promoting ethical conduct, advising staff and focusing on policy development, training and education. No two days are the same.
What is the gender balance like at your workplace?
SS: We aim to maintain a balance between male and female talent, with 45% being women — nearly equal representation of genders. Carelon is recognised as one of the Best Workplaces for Women™. This highlights our commitment to creating positive and supportive environments specifically for women, such as ensuring fair treatment in pay, recognition, training and promotion opportunities. We also provide flexibility for childcare and other family commitments.
Our inclusive practices extend beyond gender, embracing a diverse workforce from various backgrounds. This balanced approach contributes to our positive company culture and helps attract top talent from across the country.
Our inclusive practices extend beyond
gender, embracing a diverse workforce
from various backgrounds.
How does empowering and encouraging women benefit the workplace?
SS: Empowering women leads to diverse perspectives and enhances innovation and problem-solving. Inclusive policies, mentoring programmes and leadership development enhance employee satisfaction and retention, creating a more dynamic and productive workplace. By prioritising women’s professional growth, health and wellbeing, we can nurture a supportive environment that drives overall success, benefiting even our organisation and the broader community in numerous ways.
What women’s wellbeing initiatives are in place?
AF: We prioritise the holistic wellbeing of our employees. We offer enhanced family and fertility leave and are developing a progressive menopause policy. At Carelon Ireland, we actively promote our employees’ physical, mental, and emotional wellness. We understand the importance of a holistic approach, which is why our focus on physical and mental health includes paid gym memberships, onsite personal training and digital health screenings, ensuring our women have fulfilling careers — not just jobs.
