Saif Malik: Why I’m proud to be a menopause male ally
Menopause support is essential to building an inclusive and high performing workplace. I’m proud of the ways I can use my role to facilitate open discussion.
At Standard Chartered we are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels seen, supported and respected through every stage of life.
Menopause affects millions of women globally, including many of our colleagues, family members, and clients.
Our journey around really understanding the health, social and economic impact of menopause began around five years ago when we partnered with the Financial Services Skills Commission to explore how the menopause transition can affect career progression and talent retention across the UK financial services industry.
A critical business issue
The results were startling. Due to menopause, women were less likely to want to progress into more senior roles, with as many as 25 per cent more likely to leave work before retirement.
That is very damaging in terms of lost knowledge, client relationships and leadership experience, which ultimately impacts decision-making, innovation and performance, let alone the collective career development of experienced and talented women.
So, it’s not a women’s issue, it’s a critical business issue, and I am very proud to be a male ally for acknowledging and supporting menopause awareness in our business. I have been grateful for the opportunity to listen without judgement, learn and ask questions.
Understanding that every experience is unique, and asking how I as UK CEO could help, was a big step.
From awareness to practical support
I am far from alone, with the many recent UK menopause workshops and education sessions at the Bank attended by more than 400 men and women.
We’ve come a long way at Standard Chartered – we are now both a signatory of the Wellbeing of Women’s Menopause Workplace Pledge and a recognised Menopause Friendly Employer and have made tangible progress around increasing awareness, driving informed conversations, and providing greater access to support and resources.
In terms of practical support, since 2024 our medical coverage includes treatment for menopause-related symptoms for all colleagues and their partners globally. We also offer flexible working patterns to help colleagues manage menopause symptoms, have a world-class digital wellness platform providing medical advice and provide period products in all office washrooms.
“We will continue to make sure menopause is recognised and supported.”
In the UK, our Wellbeing community has set up a local menopause support group where colleagues can safely come together – a model replicated in many of our other markets – and the Bank provides People Leaders with a Menopause Conversation Guide to equip them to have conversations about menopause, its impacts, and how they can best support anyone affected.
I am really proud to be able to use my role to encourage all colleagues to address menopause openly and thoughtfully and further normalise the conversation. It is essential to our building a truly inclusive and high performing workplace.
Wellbeing matters at every stage of life and together we will continue to make sure menopause is recognised and supported, just like any other health and workplace issue — normal, flexible, and without stigma.