Calisen - EmpowerHER network for female employees and allies
Calisen is the largest meter asset provider in GB, with a smart meter installation and meter reading field force who provide services to energy suppliers. Calisen is supported by Advizzo who provide data and behavioural science insight primarily in the water industry.
In 2023 Calisen established Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), the first of which provided a network for female employees and allies, called EmpowerHER.
This was followed by three other groups to champion inclusion, representation and support for diverse voices across the business. Each ERG has a sponsor from the Executive team and Co-Chairs who are employees from across Calisen.
Whilst each ERG has its own focus area and objectives, they work closely together to provide support for employees, challenge decisions which may impact respective groups and provide a safe space for colleagues to suggest ideas and even raise concerns.
The EmpowerHER group’s objectives for 2025 cover a range of topics; the top three areas relate to:
- Working towards having 40per cent of women in the business with representation across all levels by 2030
- Increasing attraction of women who work in operational field roles and the retention of them
- Fostering an inclusive work environment where women feel supported, valued, and have opportunities to grow through allyship and sponsorship of women
In addition to the wider EmpowerHER network, with supporters and allies, a Committee was required to dedicate time and undertake projects and tasks to achieve these objectives. The committee meets on a monthly basis, supported by Calisen’s People team and Executive Sponsor.
To help deliver its objectives, the ERG runs a number of projects in year, for example collaborating with the EDI & Wellbeing team to develop a Menopause Policy, with a Line Manager toolkit to help managers have conversations around menopause and provide the necessary support to colleagues who need it.
Across all ERGs, a range of events are held every year – covering key dates such as International Women’s Day, Black History Month, Pride and Disability Pride Month. These include panel sessions and webinars to all colleagues, working with external partners and internal colleagues who volunteer to share their stories and provide personal insight. Research and information is regularly shared through Calisen's partners, Women’s Utility Network and Inclusive Employers.
















