To people at Novo Nordisk 'making a difference' has a very real meaning. Our promise of being there for people with diabetes and others whose healthcare needs we serve is what helps us stay focused. While we use the statistics to raise awareness of the impending diabetes pandemic, understanding the person behind the disease is the key to tackling the situation effectively. That is why Novo Nordisk employees are invited to meet a patient to learn what it is like to live with diabetes, haemophilia or growth disorders, and to see things from that perspective. Stakeholder trust is essential. Novo Nordisk wishes to be perceived as the preferred partner in leading the fight against diabetes and as a responsible pharmaceutical company - by healthcare professionals and their patients, and by shareholders, current and prospective employees and in the eyes of the public. As a leading pharmaceutical company, we have a role in creating public awareness of the issues that need to be addressed and facilitating informed decision-making. As a global business, we must assess our economic impact on the societies of which we are part, in order to maximise positive contributions and minimise negative impacts. To remain an employer of choice, we value our people and we must nurture their strengths and develop their competences. As a corporate citizen we must act responsibly and behave ethically with integrity and respect towards business partners, people, animals and the environment. Novo Nordisk has a long tradition for being present in developing countries. Following the priorities set by the World Health Organization, our global health programmes are now multiplying through our international network of affiliates. In this way, we contribute to more sustainable healthcare solutions with a particular focus on those people who do not currently have access to good care.
This proactive approach is well appreciated by investors and analysts who take a long-term view on investment returns. This group of socially responsible investors scrutinises policies and practices in order to determine the company’s ability to manage the business risks. Responding readily to what they see as material issues facilitates the dialogue and furthers transparency.
Leadership development, diversity management and empowerment are key elements of Novo Nordisk´s People Strategy. It is driven by management commitment and supported by programmes which engage employees. In parallel, a bottom-up approach encourages local initiatives and helps embed this broader business mindset throughout the organisation.
Supply chain management in Novo Nordisk includes evaluation and audits of suppliers from an environmental as well as a social perspective. This approach serves two purposes: risk management and extending corporate responsibility throughout the supply chain. | 
