Embracing equity in all we do

atNorth Recognized for Gender Balance: A Testament to Our Commitment to Equality 
Celebrating the Jafnvægisvogin Award and Embracing Equity in All We Do 

By Eva Sóley Guðbjörnsdóttir, Chief Financial Officer & Deputy CEO 

We are delighted to share that atNorth has been recognized by the Association of Women in Business (FKA) in Iceland with the esteemed Jafnvægisvogin Award. This recognition, which was presented on October 9^th 2025 at the University of Iceland, is not just another accolade for us but rather a significant affirmation of our ongoing commitment to fostering gender balance and promoting equity throughout our organization. 

The Jafnvægisvogin Award’s Role in Advancing True Gender Equality  
The Jafnvægisvogin Award celebrates companies and institutions that have achieved balanced gender representation among management, with the target being a 40/60 ratio. This year, 128 organizations including companies, institutions, and municipalities received this recognition, highlighting the growing movement towards workplace equality in Iceland. In a meaningful gesture, one tree is planted in the Jafnréttislund FKA for every recipient, in partnership with the Reykjavik Forestry Association symbolising growth, renewal, and a sustainable future for equality. 

Our Progress and the Importance of Representation 
 At atNorth, we are proud to have an executive team that now comprises 57% men and 43% women. This is a notable achievement, reflecting our dedication to building a diverse leadership team where all voices are heard and valued. Our progress is the result of a collective commitment, reflecting the shared responsibility across our management and every employee to foster a diverse, equal, and inclusive workplace. By valuing the unique talents and backgrounds of each individual and ensuring that equality is practised at every level, we can foster a culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and included. 

Gender balance in leadership is not simply about numbers; it is about ensuring diverse perspectives are integrated into decision-making at every level. We believe that when men and women are equally represented, it leads to more robust discussions, better solutions, and ultimately, a stronger and more innovative company. This is why awards like Jafnvægisvogin are so important – they shine a spotlight on companies who are not just talking about equality but taking concrete steps to make it a reality at every level of the organization. 

Equity at the Heart of atNorth 
 Equity is central to atNorth’s Equality Policy, guiding our commitment to gender balance and fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We believe equity goes beyond meeting targets – it means ensuring all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity or background, are given fair opportunities to grow, succeed and feel respected. Our practices are reflected in fair hiring, promotions, and regular reviews to guarantee equal pay for equal work. 

Similarly, supporting families and a work/life balance is vital to true equality within our organization. Our generous parental leave policy applies to all parents and encourages shared responsibilities at home, allowing staff to balance successful careers with fulfilling personal lives. By embedding kindness, honesty and transparency in daily interactions, we create a culture of care where every team member feels valued – benefitting both individual wellbeing and our collective success. 

Looking Forward: A Continuous Journey 
Receiving the Jafnvægisvogin Award is a moment of pride for atNorth, but it is also a reminder that the journey towards true equality is a constant commitment. As we look to the future of atNorth, we will build upon this recognition, continually seeking ways to improve and evolve our practices. We will keep listening, learning, and challenging ourselves to do better – because we know that equity and inclusion are not destinations, but ongoing commitments. We’re incredibly thankful to the Association of Women in Business for this honor and are proud to sit alongside all other recipients as we keep working together to make equality and equity a reality for all.