BHP states on their external webpage that they are an equal opportunity employer and thus does not discriminate based on race, class, religion, and gender.
However, the company has publically stated goals to achieve 50:50 gender balance in all roles across the giant mining company by 2025. Management have KPI goals increase gender diversity here in Houston.
Two weeks ago, the long awaited 20 percent reduction was completed which saw the layoff of a high percentage of men compared to women (something like 85 % were men). A similar percentage of demoted employees were men, while less experienced women were advanced. The president of the petroleum company publicly stated at the town hall last week that gender was one of multiple metrics used by the selection panel and our gender balance numbers improved post layoff.
In the US, the EEO is the law passed under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that protects applicants and employees from discrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, fringe benefits, etc. on the basis of age, race, color, religion, s-x, national origin, genetics and/or disability.
It is against the law to make employment decisions based on gender. Period.
BHP is walking a fine line. As a shareholder, I want the company to retain its best and brightest regardless of the boxes they check on the diversity metrics.