Cultivating belonging through employee network groups

In a geography as large and diverse as Ramboll in the Americas, finding your place outside your office and team can sometimes be challenging. We have employees across more than 60 offices in five time zones, across three countries. Hybrid work environments have also added an extra layer of complexity to community building. But out of these challenges were born our employee network groups (ENGs) – voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is provide a network and forum for connection for all interested employees.

“ENGs create an environment where diverse voices and perspectives are heard and valued,” says Jeanne Tarvin, Director, E&H Americas. “They help ensure that all employees feel respected and acknowledged. Further, these groups bring together employees from different business areas and levels of the organization fostering cross-functional collaboration and innovation.”

Building a culture of inclusion

A focal piece of Ramboll’s strategy is fostering an inclusive culture that reflects our commitment to society, clients, and people. Embracing and nurturing ENGs across our organization is a key to that ambition. At present, there are seven ENGs in the Americas – Developing Professionals, Family Support, Minds Matter, Pride, Ruach, Veterans, Women of Color – with approximately 750 unique members between them.

As members of the Americas Leadership Team (ALT) and active supporters of the ENGs, Tracey and Jeanne have been instrumental in helping the groups flourish. Tracey is currently the ALT champion for the Ruach ENG, a group that gives a voice to and celebrates Jewish and affiliated employees and their families. Jeanne served as executive sponsor for our Veterans ENG and is now ALT champion for the Family Support ENG. Our ALT champions provide guidance and support to the ENGs, ensuring alignment with the Americas’ objectives.

“ENGs are all about building community,” says Tracey. “They bring together people with shared interests or passions and give them a safe, welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and support one another. They also serve as a platform to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to leadership and create valuable opportunities for employees at all levels to step into leadership roles themselves. But what inspires me most about these groups are the personal stories shared by members. I’ve heard so many experiences and memories that have shaped people’s lives, and those stories often resonate deeply with others.”

Jeanne adds: “ENGs help create a sense of belonging among employees who share common interests, backgrounds, or experiences. They provide a platform for employees to connect, support each other, and build meaningful relationships across the organization.”

Impacting organization wellbeing

More than just cultural assets, ENGs deliver tangible business results. Research shows that ENGs have a significant and positive impact on retention and performance and can be a differentiator in recruitment effort. These facts are backed up by anecdotal data but also positive trends in employee satisfaction.

“Since we started the groups in 2020, engagement within our Americas ENGs has grown steadily, and our retention rates remain strong – well above industry averages,” says Tracey. “While I don’t have hard data to prove it, I’ve seen that employees who participate in ENGs are deeply invested in both their roles and in making Ramboll a great place to work. In fact, ENG members are some of our strongest champions, helping to make Ramboll more inclusive and supportive. Our employee satisfaction survey results back this up, showing high scores in engagement, diversity and inclusion, and health and well-being.”

As the leader of the Americas' largest business unit – Environment & Health – and the former executive sponsor for the Veterans ENG since its inception, Jeanne has had a unique view into the impact of ENGs.

“I have seen significant positive changes in the organization since we implemented the ENGs,” she says. “Participation in ENGs boosts employee morale and engagement by enabling employees to connect over common goals and interests, which often leads to increased job satisfaction. The ENGs can often create spaces for employees to learn new skills, build connections, and find mentorship. I’ve found that employees who feel supported by ENGs are more likely to stay with the company long-term.”

Finding community

Between deadlines, work/life balance, and other responsibilities, joining an ENG might feel like an extra commitment. But ENGs can help create connections and communities across a large organization, offering any interested employee a safe place to learn, engage, network, and connect.

“Give it a try,” says Jeanne. “ENGs give you an opportunity to meet and collaborate with employees from different departments, regions, and levels within the organization, which can support your career development and professional connections.”

Tracey agrees: “Go to a meeting – see what’s happening, listen, and think about how you might be able to contribute to a community that truly cares about shaping company culture,” Tracey says. “You might discover a group that shares your passion, and you’ll certainly learn something new.”