GALivida: Focus on health, diversity and inclusion
Pioneers in transition
The well-being of our employees is key to us. That’s why we promote health and professional development and provide reliable support even in the event of illness or after an accident. Under the GALivida health programme launched in 2025, we are consciously combining the topics of diversity, inclusion and health.
GALivida is based on a holistic understanding of health. The programme combines occupational health and safety, workplace health promotion and absence management alongside diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to promote the well-being of our employees in the long term while also reducing absenteeism due to illness and accidents.
Supporting physical health
We promote the health of our managers and teams and prevent accidents through a wide range of measures. In logistics, our cooperation with SUVA contributes significantly to accident prevention. Free vaccinations, preventive health checks, seminars and information on health topics support individual preventive health care. Sporting activities also encourage people to exercise and strengthen team spirit: In June 2025, 40 employees cycled to work as part of the Bike to Work campaign, and in autumn 2025, 60 employees were represented in all disciplines at the Lausanne Marathon.
Mental health needs a safe environment
However, health in the workplace depends not only on individual measures, but also on the corporate culture. “It is a key lever for mental health. It is crucial to see employees as people and not as resources, and to treat them with respect, regardless of their role or position in the hierarchy,” says Marc Werner, CEO of the Galenica Group.
In order to raise awareness of mental health and promote dialogue, a pilot project called “Mental Health Days” was launched in November 2025. Employees were able to take part in meditation sessions, walks, social lunch meetings and Tai Chi workouts. “As an employer with the aspiration to be an ’Employer of choice’, we bear a special responsibility. At Galenica, everyone should feel confident in seeking help without fear of judgement,” explains Ariane Hasler, Head of People & Culture.
This starts with how we treat each other. That is why diversity and inclusion are such integral parts of GALivida and protect personal integrity in the workplace.
Support when it matters
For several years now, Galenica has been offering case management in cooperation with the health insurance company Helsana for employees who are absent due to illness or accident. Employees receive individual guidance and support. This has increased the return rate from 54 per cent in 2020 to 76 per cent in 2024.
Interview with Claudia Gbessaya and Roman Epprecht about the Mental Health Days
Why did Galenica organise the Mental Health Days, and why in November 2025 in particular?
Mental health affects us all: one in two people experiences a mental illness during their lifetime. An internal survey on “Employer of choice” also showed how important this topic is for employees. Mental health issues are still stigmatised in the workplace. In collaboration with Health Promotion Switzerland and Pro Mente Sana, we were also able to take over parts of the “How are you” campaign. The winter months are considered particularly difficult. That’s why we deliberately chose November.
What was the aim of the Mental Health Days?
The focus was on raising awareness and breaking down taboos. The aim was to create space for discussion and practical ideas. Employees were able to apply very specific methods to improve their mental health in resilience workshops, discussion groups and Tai Chi sessions.
What feedback from employees particularly surprised or concerned you?
We received a lot of written and verbal feedback. The participants were very grateful that we had taken up this relevant topic and implemented it in a practical and tangible way. We were very touched by the great trust shown in the conversations with colleagues, some of whom shared very personal stories with us.
The Mental Health Days were designed as a pilot: what’s next?
The feedback we received was very positive. Further activities are planned, including at our sites in Lausanne-Ecublens and Niederbipp. Mental health remains an integral part of GALivida.