KPMG will make unconscious bias training mandatory and linked to bonuses from June, just over a year after the previous boss called the idea “complete crap”, according to a report in the Telegraph.
The accounting giant’s 15,300 UK staff could have their bonuses slashed if they refuse to attend future lessons on bias, which will highlight how discussing skiing holidays, gap years and private schooling can isolate others.
Kevin Hogarth, KPMG UK’s chief people officer, told the Telegraph that the mandatory training will ensure inclusion and diversity “gets the attention it deserves”.
He said: “We want all our people to come as they are, and that can only be made possible by challenging ourselves, confronting biases and listening and learning from each other.”
A spokesman also revealed that completion of the module will be “closely monitored and failure to complete the training will be flagged with performance leaders”. This could “impact a colleague’s performance rating, and by extension their bonus”.