A national commitment in line with its partnership with the French Civil Security
After signing a national agreement with the French Civil Security (Sécurité Civile) last November to encourage its employees to become volunteer firemen, Saur France is now extending its support to all types of reserves by signing a national agreement with the Garde Nationale. The signing ceremony was attended by Estelle Grelier, CEO of Saur France, Xavier Savigny, Group Chief Human Resources, Organization and Transformation for Saur, and Major General François-Xavier Poisbeau, General Secretary of the National Guard (Guarde Nationale) and the French Military Reserve Advisory Board (Conseil supérieur de la réserve militaire).
A proactive HR policy to reconcile commitment and career development
The agreement reflects a clear desire to facilitate the commitment of employees as operational reservists, while preserving their professional and personal balance. The measures put in place reflect this commitment:
- 20 days of authorised absence per year, including 10 days paid at 100% – an effort far in excess of the legal provisions
- Dedicated HR support to ensure a smooth transition between professional obligations and reserve duties
In total, several dozen employees are currently involved in operational or Civil Security reserves, particularly as volunteer fire fighters. This growing pool of volunteers reflects the spirit of commitment that drives Saur’s teams.
"My commitment allows me to serve, but also to develop a real sense of duty, rigour and responsiveness. It also helps me in my day-to-day work at Saur. "
Ayoub
Operator in Lyon and reservist with the National Police force (Gendarmerie Nationale)
"Being supported by my company in this commitment gives even more meaning to my work. I feel useful on two levels. "
Ewan
Researcher in Limoges and reservist in the French Army (Forces Armées françaises)
Inspiring career paths, serving the general interest
These civic commitments enrich both the employees and the company. The Saur group values these cross-disciplinary skills, such as leadership, stress management and solidarity in crisis situations – qualities that are invaluable in the water and essential services businesses.
"After signing our agreement with the French Civil Security (Sécurité Civile), this agreement with the National Guard (Garde Nationale) marks a new stage in our policy of civic commitment. We are proud to support our reservist employees, whose commitment to serving the nation reflects the values we all share: a sense of duty, solidarity and social usefulness. By providing them with practical support, Saur France is affirming its commitment to being a responsible company,
rooted in the realities of our time. "
Estelle Grelier
CEO of Saur France
"By supporting our employees involved in the reserves, we are choosing an HR model that reconciles performance, civic commitment and attractiveness. This support reflects our conception of the company as a responsible player, capable of valuing individual career paths and encouraging individual involvement in the service of the Group. "
Xavier Savigny
Group Chief Human Resources, Organization and Transformation for Saur