Diversity and Inclusion: EQUAL-SALARY Certification

Why should your company pursue EQUAL-SALARY certification?

• Credibility & transparency
   Provides objective assurance that your organisation guarantees pay equity while promoting equal opportunities for every employee.
• Employer brand & talent attraction
   Strengthens your reputation among candidates, employees, and all stakeholders by demonstrating a strong and visible commitment to equal opportunities.
• Reinforcement of the Diversity & Inclusion strategy
  Your organisation takes concrete action to promote gender equality, equal opportunities, and responsible employment practices.
• Sustainable HR strategy
  Structures and embeds internal processes, establishing robust and lasting pay equity practices that are essential to building a culture based on fairness and equality.

At Forvis Mazars, we firmly believe that diversity and equality are essential drivers of performance and sustainability. This is why we support the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation and its values of fairness. As a certified company ourselves, we are committed to guiding our clients through this process to promote fair, inclusive and forward-looking workplaces.

Equal pay, recognised as a fundamental human right, is now a strategic priority for companies seeking to attract, retain and develop talent.

Two complementary labels

The EQUAL-SALARY certification is available in two distinct labels:

• Equal Pay: Confirms that women and men are paid fairly for work of equal value.
• Equal Pay and Opportunities: Confirms that the company provides fair and inclusive career opportunities regardless of gender.

Companies may choose to obtain only the Equal Pay label or opt for full certification by pursuing the Equal Pay and Opportunities label.

This recognition strengthens the company’s credibility and enhances its reputation, providing significant added value.

Our experts have extensive experience in conducting these audits. The certification is granted by the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation, a non-profit and independent organisation established in 2010 to monitor fair pay practices. Developed in collaboration with the University of Geneva and supported by the Swiss Confederation, the EQUAL-SALARY certification is based on a rigorous scientific approach.

It is available to companies worldwide, across all industries, with at least 50 employees, including a minimum of 10 women.

Our EQUAL-SALARY approach

The EQUAL-SALARY certification process is based on a recognised scientific methodology (validated by the Swiss Federal Supreme Court) and follows the system approach of ISO 9000 standards. It unfolds in four stages:

Step 1: Salary analysis

The company securely and anonymously submits its pay data to the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation. The data is analysed using a regression model to measure the unexplained pay gap between women and men. If the gap is less than or equal to 5%, the company may obtain the Equal Pay Label or proceed with the process. Otherwise, a remediation period of 3 to 6 months may be granted.

Deliverables: Statistical report, variable relevance measurement, list of specific cases, Equal Pay certificate.

Step 2: Documentation review & on-site audit

Once the analysis is complete and results are satisfactory, the company proceeds to a qualitative on-site audit. This stage includes a review of the submitted questionnaire and an evaluation of the list of individuals identified in the first step, as well as an assessment of HR policies and processes. The audit also examines management’s commitment to pay and opportunity equality. In addition, interviews are conducted to gather employee perspectives on equality practices within the company.

Deliverable: ISAE 3000 (Revised) audit report.

Step 3: Certification

Based on the audit report prepared by Forvis Mazars, the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation grants (if all requirements are met) the Equal Pay and Opportunities Label. This label confirms the company’s commitment to fair pay policies and can be used in all official communications for three years. In case of non-compliance, an extension may be granted to implement corrective actions.

Deliverable: Equal Pay and Opportunities certificate.

Step 4: Follow-up audits

During this three-year period, the company must undergo two follow-up audits to verify the corrective measures are implemented after the main audit. After three years, the certification process must be renewed to maintain the certification.

Our EQUAL-SALARY certification services

Over the years, Forvis Mazars has built a multidisciplinary team specialised in various CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) certification audits. With this expertise, we have become an accredited audit partner of the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation, authorised to conduct audits leading to certification.

Our added value

Becoming an EQUAL-SALARY certified company demonstrates your commitment to equal pay and equal opportunities for women and men and highlights your dedication to gender equality. The certification is a powerful asset to attract and retain talent while enhancing your reputation among clients, investors and suppliers.

By positioning your organisation as a leader in diversity and inclusion, you contribute to a fairer and more sustainable world. The certification process goes beyond salary analysis, it requires clear and lasting leadership commitment and the implementation of effective HR processes. It also provides valuable insights into areas for improvement, contributing to your development and global growth.

Forvis Mazars leading by example

Forvis Mazars is proud to have obtained the EQUAL-SALARY certification for all its employees in Switzerland.

With this certification, we join a community of companies committed to pay equity and equal opportunity. You can view a list of already certified organisations on the dedicated page.

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