Diversity and inclusion

At SMG, we stand for equal opportunities and a workplace built on respect, inclusivity, and diversity. These principles are deeply embedded in our CoC. With over 50 nationalities represented in our Swiss and Serbian offices alone, we recognise that a diverse workforce brings a rich variety of perspectives, experiences, and ideas.

Diversity figures22

Board of Directors

at 31 December | in percentage, except total

2024

Women

14%

Men

86%

Age under 30

0%

Age 30 to 50

14%

Age above 50

86%

Total headcount1

7

1Two members left the Board of Directors effective 31 December 2024

Employees

at 31 December | in percentage, except total

Top Management

Middle Management

Other Employees

2024

Women

15.8%

22.9%

40.4%

34.1%

Men

84.2%

77.1%

59.6%

65.9%

Age under 30

0.0%

3.8%

22.3%

15.8%

Age 30 to 50

68.4%

83.8%

70.7%

74.4%

Age above 50

31.6%

12.4%

7.0%

9.8%

Total headcount1

38

210

485

733

1Data refers exclusively to employees based in Switzerland and Serbia

Fair pay and equal opportunities

In Switzerland, SMG was awarded the legally compliant Fair-ON-Pay Advanced certification in 2023, confirming that men and women at SMG receive equal pay for equal work. Issued by Comp-On AG, the certification serves as a benchmark in the Swiss market and will be repeated in 2025 to ensure continued compliance and a sustainable approach on this topic.

In 2024, we collaborated with the University of St. Gallen to conduct a workshop focused on diversity-related topics, resulting in concrete initiatives to implement at SMG. To further support inclusive leadership, we introduced unconscious bias workshops for our leaders23 across all locations, delivered by an external trainer. These interactive sessions help leaders understand how unconscious bias can influence their decision-making and leadership approaches, while providing practical strategies to recognise and mitigate personal biases. The training specifically addresses the impact of bias on key business processes like recruitment and employee development, guiding more equitable leadership practices. In 2024, 83% of all leaders participated in this initiative.

As a member of Advance, a network of over 140 Swiss companies advocating for gender equality, we are dedicated to fostering leadership diversity. Through this network, we participate in a mentorship programme that pairs high-potential female mentees with senior executive mentors from different companies, providing cross-company insights and supporting professional growth.

Non-discrimination

Fair and respectful treatment is anchored in our values and forms the basis for a healthy and inspiring working environment. We actively cultivate mutual respect and tolerance among employees to prevent discrimination, disadvantage, and harassment. No incidents of discrimination were reported or registered through SMG’s whistleblowing process in 2024.

Developing our diversity and inclusion strategy

While diversity and inclusion remain topics of global debate, our commitment to the principles outlined in our CoC remains firm. In 2025, we are building on our existing efforts and launching a dedicated initiative to further develop our business-driven diversity and inclusion strategy. This strategy not only reflects our values but also strengthens our culture and empowers our employees in a meaningful way, guided by global benchmarks and best practices to ensure a structured, impactful, and sustainable approach.