Culture of caring in the workplace: from shared struggles to global network at Amadeus
Fostering a culture of caring in the workplace isn’t just good for employee wellbeing—it’s essential for building trust, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
From peer support to flexible work arrangements, companies around the world are finding new ways to create caring work environments that go beyond the basics.
At Amadeus, this commitment is brought to life through initiatives like the Fenix Employee Resource Group (ERG), a global community for employees facing long-term illness or supporting loved ones who are. What began as a simple WhatsApp chat among four colleagues has grown into a powerful example of what a caring workplace culture can look like in action.
How a Caring Work Culture Took Flight
In April 2024, four Amadeus employees— ourselves, Angela Martínez and Beverley Robson, along with two colleagues based in Stockholm—discovered we were navigating similar journeys through serious illness. The four of us had breast cancer and were facing the emotional and logistical challenges that come with long-term health conditions.
To support one another, we created a private WhatsApp group: a space to share, listen, and feel less alone.
Did you know?
On average across 24 OECD countries, more than one in three adults lives with a longstanding illness or health problem.
Source: OECD, 2021
We were all going through a really hard time. But when we started connecting, it all felt a little less daunting—and mostly, less lonely. We never imagined it would grow like this, but we’re so glad we found each other and were able to spread this culture of care.
The Impact of the Fenix ERG
Just one year later, the Fenix ERG has become a formal global network, sponsored by Ana Doval, SVP of People & Culture. The group now supports employees across the world who are either living with long-term illness or caring for someone who is.
Fenix offers support in five key ways:
A global network of ambassadors
Volunteers across Amadeus offices act as local contact points, raise awareness, and connect people to support.
Peer matching
Employees can be matched with others who’ve faced similar experiences for emotional support and shared advice.
Quarterly global calls
These open sessions bring members together to share stories, discuss needs, and plan future initiatives. The first call welcomed over 50 participants worldwide.
A dedicated Teams channel
A global space where members stay connected and share helpful resources.
Advocacy
Fenix partners closely with the People & Culture team to surgface needs and create a more inclusive workplace for those facing medical challenges.
Why a Caring Work Environment Matters
What makes the Fenix ERG unique is its dual impact—it supports individuals and drives structural change.
In one case, a colleague recovering from surgery needed a medical waste bin added to the men's restroom. A simple change, but one that made a big difference. On a larger scale, Fenix is working with the People & Culture team to design a more flexible hybrid work policy for employees medically assessed as needing it or for caregivers who need extra support.
The group is also developing a Guide to Medical Leave, designed to help employees understand what to expect when going on leave, including available benefits and workplace support. The goal is to reduce uncertainty and stress during already challenging times.
How Amadeus Supports a Culture of Caring
Fenix is one example of how Amadeus is creating a caring work culture across its global workforce. While specific benefits vary by country, employees around the world have access to a wide range of support programs.
These include:
- Occupational Health Checks to ease the return-to-work process after extended illness.
- Private health insurance in many regions, offering expanded access to care.
- Flexible working arrangements, including remote work options, for those managing health conditions or supporting family members.
- Supplemental financial support, such as top-ups to national social security for medical leave in certain countries.
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide free and confidential mental health support.
Together, these offerings help foster a caring workplace culture that goes beyond policies—it’s about meeting people where they are, with empathy and action.
Learn more about how we support our employees at Life at Amadeus
Discover our approach to social sustainability
The Future of Caring in the Workplace
At Amadeus, we believe that building better travel starts with taking care of our people by fostering an Amadeus for all. The Fenix ERG is proof that small acts of support—when shared—can evolve into a global movement. And the 1st anniversary of the group comes just as we head into EU Diversity Month, with its focus on promoting mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.
Whether it’s through peer connection, workplace flexibility, or advocacy, Fenix continues to show us what’s possible when care becomes part of the culture. As the group celebrates its first anniversary, one thing is clear: together, like the phoenix, we’re rising stronger.
TO TOP