Global parental leave program at Henkel shows clear impact

• 15 percent increase in global uptake
• 35 percent increase in fathers taking parental leave – in some countries for the first time
• Multiple awards recognizing the program 

Two years after introducing Henkel’s parental leave program, which offers eight weeks of fully paid leave, the company reports a positive impact. The initiative remains unique among DAX-listed companies. It is available to all Henkel employees worldwide and is based on the caregiver role rather than gender or biological parent status. It includes, for example, adoptive, foster, surrogacy, and LGBTQ+ parents.

“By introducing our global parental leave program two years ago, we made a bold and groundbreaking decision. I was – and still am – convinced that it was the right step for our employees, their families, and for fostering a culture that promotes equity. In doing so, we strengthen our attractiveness as an employer and enhance employee satisfaction and retention,” says Carsten Knobel, CEO of Henkel.

“We knew this program would be ambitious – operationally, culturally, and in terms of its global implementation. I am very proud of the positive development and would like to thank all teams for their strong commitment. As an important part of our comprehensive employee benefits, the strong response shows that with courage and consistency, we can drive real change – within the company and beyond,” says Sylvie Nicol, Executive Vice President Human Resources, Infrastructure and Sustainability at Henkel.

Significant increase in uptake – especially among fathers

The figures show a clear positive trend: overall, the uptake of fully paid parental leave worldwide increased by 15 percent compared to 2024. The number of male employees making use of the offer rose even more strongly by 35 percent. This shift is particularly evident in regions where parental leave for fathers has so far been uncommon. For example, in one country in the Middle East, not a single father took parental leave in 2024, whereas last year, the number has already risen to 84.

Recognition for Diversity and Inclusion

Henkel’s global parental leave program has also received external recognition: The company was awarded the DEI Corporate Excellence Award 2026 by the F.A.Z. Institute, as well as the Gold German HR Excellence Award 2024 from the German trade media Personalwirtschaft. Furthermore, Henkel received the Silver Employee Experience Award 2026 Malaysia in the category “Caregiver Support Programme”. All three awards honor initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion and reflect Henkel’s continued efforts to foster an inclusive workplace environment.