MetLife Delivers on Commitments
By Steven A Kandarian, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO, MetLife, Inc.
Originally published in MetLife's CSR Report, Global Impact
At MetLife, we strive to be world class in every aspect of our business. As a publicly traded company, we are focused on delivering strong returns to our shareholders. At the same time, it is also our mission to create value for all our stakeholders—customers, employees and communities alike. In 2014, we delivered on these commitments in a variety of ways:
Serving our customers: We know it’s not always as easy as it should be to do business with MetLife. We are listen- ing to our customers and using their input to make our offerings easier to understand and buy. In 2014, we contin- ued to invest in technology and tools to help our advisors gather customer information quickly and simply, and we streamlined application processes for certain products.
Providing a great place to work: MetLife’s culture is strongly rooted in the commitment our employees have to serving each other and our customers and communities. In 2014, we invested in employees’ professional development through intensive, companywide training workshops on motivational leadership. In addition, more than 5,000 employees participated in a program on creating a sup- portive and inclusive working environment.
Advancing stability in the communities we serve: We are acutely aware of the millions of people around the world with limited access to financial knowledge, services and insights. MetLife is committed to expanding financial access, notably through the financial inclusion focusof MetLife Foundation. Now in the second year of a $200 million grant-making initiative, the Foundation has committed nearly $70 million to help make affordable financial services and products available to low-income communities and individuals.
Operating with integrity and transparency: We hold ourselves accountable to the highest levels of integrity and ethical conduct. MetLife’s culture of accountability, and the trust it engenders with our stakeholders, enables us to deliver on our mission.
Protecting the environment for future generations: As a company whose business model is built upon long- term planning, we take a long-term view with regard to environmental stewardship. We are on track to meet the goals we’ve set to reduce energy, waste, water use and emissions.
For 147 years, MetLife has operated as a good corporate citizen. This report provides a snapshot of how we are building on that legacy today. I hope you find it inspiring.
