At Extra Space Storage, we strive to create an inclusive environment. Not only do we want to foster a workplace in which people are treated fairly and feel as though they can contribute equally, but we also recognize that having a diverse team allows us to incorporate unique viewpoints into our work, which helps us better serve our customers and realize our company’s vision.
To demonstrate our commitment to building an inclusive workplace, our Diversity & Inclusion Committee at Extra Space Storage leads initiatives that help us attract top talent, encourage team members to bring their best selves to work every day, and further champion our company’s core values of Integrity, Excellence, Innovation, Teamwork, and Passion.
“I’m excited to lead this committee,” said Grace Kunde, Senior Vice President of Accounting and Finance. “Extra Space Storage has been a great place for me to build my career, and our committee is dedicated to making our company even better.”
At Extra Space Storage, diversity is defined broadly. To us, it goes beyond one-dimensional categories like gender and race to recognize that everyone is unique with multi-faceted aspects of:
- Background
- Education
- Religion
- Veteran Status
- Sexual Orientation
- Geographic Location
- and more
“From our CEO to assistant store managers, when we foster a workplace where people are treated fairly, supported, and listened to, we make Extra Space Storage a better company,” added Kunde.
Continuing to foster an inclusive environment is a priority for Extra Space Storage, which is why we’ve already begun to implement new recruiting efforts and employee resource and affinity groups.
In addition, Extra Space Storage has joined the Women’s Leadership Institute‘s ElevateHer Challenge and made a pledge to enhance the stature of women’s leadership in our organization. The ElevateHer Challenge, which was launched in 2015, asks companies to focus on improving six key areas:
- Percentage of women in senior leadership positions
- Retention rate of women at all levels in the organization
- Number of women on corporate and community boards of directors
- Pay by gender and closing identified gaps
- Leadership development and mentoring programs for women
- Support for women to run for public office
“The ElevateHER Challenge is research-based and non-prescriptive,” said Patricia Jones, CEO of the Women’s Leadership Institute. “It’s adaptable among different company cultures. We’ve seen how implementing this challenge and focusing on one or more of these six areas can attract and retain talent and enhance ROI.”
Extra Space Storage is one of 33 Utah businesses joining more than 225 organizations working with the Women’s Leadership Institute on this challenge.
“Simply put, our goal is to do the right thing,” said Kunde. “Valuing diversity and inclusion allows us to attract and retain top talent, improve employee engagement, increase innovation and customer insight, and enhance the quality of our decision-making.”
Interested in a career with Extra Space Storage? Learn more about our employment opportunities.
