The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken up the workforce in myriad ways — disproportionately impacting women and undermining much of the progress towards gender equality in corporate America. While it’s promising that women are returning the workforce, they continue to encounter challenges that keep them from climbing the ranks within their organizations.
In the face of this, Creative Circle, a recruiting and consulting services company based in Los Angeles, has remained steadfast in its dedication to putting women to work. Every year, Creative Circle partners with its clients across North America to place thousands of women in contract and full-time positions in the creative, advertising, and marketing space.
Creative Circle’s dedication to women starts from within, with a culture that is centered around people and relationships. The company’s president, Matt Riley, emphasizes that before Creative Circle had offices across North America and powerful recruitment technology, there was just one office — filled with individuals who worked diligently to put people to work and bring creative visions to life. As the company expanded its scope, the team has made certain that Creative Circle stays true to its people-focused roots.
And this promise has paid off. Today, women make up 80% of the company’s workforce, including 60% of the senior leadership team. Recently, Creative Circle established multiple employee resource groups (ERGs) that provide support for women and engage with relevant issues, both within the company and beyond.
While proud of these accomplishments, Creative Circle strives to do even more. From setting ambitious goals to hire and promote more women, to expanding parental benefits and sponsoring women-specific networking opportunities for employees and contractors, Creative Circle is committed to supporting women both within and outside of its walls.
Beyond empowering employees and contract candidates, Creative Circle also supports women in underserved communities globally. Every year, Creative Circle allocates tens of thousands of dollars for each office, division, and ERG to donate to a charity of their choice; some recent recipients include Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Feeding America, Charlie’s Army, My Sister’s Place, Gensis Women’s Shelter, and Girls Who Code.
Creative Circle is proud of the women it employs and the tremendous impact they continue to have on the company and the broader community. Riley shares that he hopes other companies will be inspired by Creative Circle’s dedication and will take similar steps to empower women in the workforce.
