Bristol Myers Squibb becomes first global employer to gain menopause accreditation across three regions 

Pharmaceutical company Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has become the first global employer to achieve Menopause Friendly Accreditation across three regions, covering the UK, Australia and the United States. 

The accreditation, awarded by Menopause in the Workplace by Henpicked, recognises organisations that meet defined standards for supporting employees affected by menopause at work. Employers must demonstrate evidence of effective practice across five areas: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment. 

Menopause Friendly Accreditation was established in 2021 and is assessed by an independent panel. BMS UK achieved accreditation in August 2022, followed by Australia in October 2025 and the US in November 2025, working with Menopause Friendly US partner MiDoVia. 

BMS said each region developed its own approach to meet local cultural and workplace needs, supported by a global framework that includes internal menopause guidelines, workforce training and peer support through trained menopause advocates. In the UK, more than 60 per cent of the workforce has completed menopause awareness training. 

Deborah Garlick, chief executive and founder of Menopause in the Workplace by Henpicked, said the accreditation demonstrated how global employers can adapt menopause support to different contexts. 

“By achieving triple-region Menopause Friendly Accreditation, Bristol Myers Squibb shows the power of adapting menopause awareness training and practices to meet cultural demands and local needs,” she said. 

“All three regions have shown that being menopause friendly is not just the right thing to do: it’s a business imperative that strengthens staff wellbeing, boosts retention and ensures everyone can thrive, no matter where they are in the world.”  

In the UK, BMS said its work began in 2021 following a colleague’s personal experience, which prompted senior leaders to introduce training and support initiatives. Measures included mandatory training for people managers, occupational health and HR teams, a menopause advocate network and a fast-track referral service providing access to a registered menopause specialist.  

Guy Oliver, general manager of Bristol Myers Squibb UK and Ireland, said the accreditation reflected a people-led approach. 

“In 2022, we were immensely proud to be the first pharmaceutical company in the UK to be accredited as a Menopause Friendly Workplace,” he said. 

“Our message is loud and clear – everyone who works here should be able to bring their authentic selves to work, without judgement, whatever they may be facing in their lives.” 

In Australia, BMS engaged with Menopause Friendly Australia following its launch in 2023, using the process to identify gaps in knowledge and make physical and cultural workplace adjustments. The company said this included educating staff on perimenopause and menopause symptoms and how to support colleagues. 

Owen Smith, general manager of BMS Australia and New Zealand, said the accreditation validated those efforts. 

In the US, BMS introduced menopause awareness sessions, training modules and a dedicated menopause hub, alongside internal guidelines covering menopause phases, symptoms and support options.  

Amanda Poole, executive vice-president and chief people officer at Bristol Myers Squibb, said the accreditation reflected the company’s global approach to inclusion.