Scott Salmirs

1
President & Chief Executive Officer
ABM Industries

Scott Salmirs is President and CEO of ABM, one of the world’s largest facility services and solutions providers. A values-guided leader, Scott has served as CEO since 2015, leading multiple enterprise-wide transformations to drive long-term growth and elevate the experience and value ABM delivers to stakeholders. Scott previously held leadership positions at Goldman Sachs, Lehman Brothers and CBRE. To advance an inclusive culture and DEI awareness at ABM, Scott helped launch employee resource groups, championed the Inclusive Team Member Training program, increased its diverse supplier spend, advocated for more mentorship programs, and fostered deeper relationships with diverse partner organizations, among other initiatives. Scott serves on several committees and philanthropic boards, including the Cleaning Coalition of America, the Board of the Outreach Project, an organization dedicated to rehabilitating young adults with substance abuse problems, and is a founding board member of Donate Eight, which is committed to increasing organ donation awareness.

Donna Milrod

2
Chief Product Officer and Head of STT Digital
State Street

Since joining in 2019, Donna Milrod, State Street's Chief Product Officer and head of STT Digital, has been a driving force behind State Street's DEI initiatives, serving on the Executive Committee and spearheading efforts such as unconscious bias training, and the 10 Actions Against Racism and Inequality program. As Workstream Sponsor for Action #8, “Representation Across the Industry,” she also champions representation and career opportunities for Black and Latinx talent while being the Executive Sponsor for State Street's PRIDE network for LGBTQ+ support and advocacy. Beyond State Street, Donna's commitment to DEI extends to her involvement in organizations like the Women's Forum of New York, the Women Corporate Directors Foundation, and the Committee of 200. She has also dedicated her efforts to promoting STEM education and advancing underrepresented talent in the financial services industry through her involvement with the New York Academy of Sciences and the Robert Toigo Foundation.

David Hynam

3
Chief Executive
LV=

David Hynam is the Chief Executive at LV=, where he has spearheaded a transformative Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy since September 2022. Under his leadership, DEI targets were integrated into the company's 2023 business objectives, resulting in a remarkable increase in colleague diversity information sharing from 30% to 87% by December 2023. Hynam also revitalized LV='s DEI networks, particularly the Respect Network, increasing its membership fivefold and fostering collaboration. He initiated multicultural-focused events such as National Inclusion Week panels, Black History Month celebrations, Islamophobia Awareness Month articles, Diwali festivities, and Chinese New Year events. Hynam's dedication to DEI extends beyond the workplace; as a former trustee of the UK Foundation, he supported initiatives promoting emotional and physical well-being, particularly for marginalized communities.

Dan Draper

4
CEO
S&P Dow Jones Indices

Since mid-2022, Dan Draper, the CEO at S&P Dow Jones Indices, has served as the Executive Sponsor for the BOLD (Black Organization for Leadership Development) People Resource Group, actively promoting BOLD's mission and encouraging the establishment of new chapters which now include over 2,000 members across the globe. Emphasizing intersectionality, he also engages with women leaders on career progression and sponsors mentoring initiatives to ensure equitable opportunities within S&P Dow Jones Indices. His dedication to DEI extends beyond the workplace, evidenced by his involvement in initiatives like the partnership with DCIAA and Aspen Institute to promote racially equitable savings outcomes. Recognized for his advocacy, Dan received the Male Ambassador Award from Women in Derivatives and consistently leverages his public platforms to raise awareness of cultural events. Moreover, as a Fellow of the Aspen Global Leadership Network, he continues to champion diversity initiatives and support underrepresented communities.

Miranda Collard

5
Global Chief Client Officer
Teleperformance

Miranda Collard, Global Chief Client Officer at Teleperformance, spearheaded the establishment of ERGs at Teleperformance starting with TP Women, which is aimed at empowering women including women of color, to become change makers in the industry. Three additional ERGs were launched in 2022, supporting employees from diverse racial backgrounds. Miranda’s commitment to promoting equality and equity in the workplace, along with her deep understanding of the BPO industry, have led to the implementation of initiatives for gender-neutral salary bands, proactive diversity selection procedures and mandatory DEI training. A vocal advocate for DEI with experience across a broad spectrum of industry verticals, Miranda has contributed to publications like Forbes, HR Director and CEO World, promoting awareness of the benefits of establishing and supporting DEI programs in companies. Miranda is a member of the Teleperformance Executive Committee and is the Global Chief Client Officer responsible for the day-to-day leadership, strategic direction, and business transformation efforts of Teleperformance’s client partners.

Robyn Grew

6
CEO
Man Group

Robyn Grew was appointed CEO of Man Group in 2023 and remains committed to ensuring that a wide range of voices and perspectives are represented at the firm and beyond. Robyn champions Man Group’s DEI programme, Drive, and has been the senior sponsor for its Black employees’ network, BEAM, alongside being senior sponsor of the Pride@Man LGBTQ+ network. In 2023, she oversaw Man Group’s establishment of targets for ethnically diverse representation in senior management, as well as the BEAM network’s initiatives showcasing the diversity of Black heritages at the firm and the expansion of its mentoring partnership with Barrington Hibbert Associate for our Black talent. An advocate for DEI and for finance as a career choice, Robyn is an active participant across several industry bodies and a speaker at conferences and in the media, and she also speaks at schools through the Speakers4Schools programme.

Lindsay Pattison

7
Chief People Officer
WPP

Lindsay Pattison is Chief People Officer at WPP and a member of the Global Inclusion Council, where she drives systemic change by recommending programs and policies that foster more inclusive and diverse workplaces. She oversees initiatives such as the Racial Equity Programme and Inclusion as a Skill, aiming to cultivate a culture of belonging for all employees. Lindsay also champions Employee Community Groups and sponsors Elevate, a program supporting career growth for Black women. Previously serving as Chief Client Officer at WPP, she launched initiatives like the Diversity Review Subcommittee, ensuring an inclusive approach to creativity. She mentors women, shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, and advocates for gender equality through global programs like Walk the Talk. With a track record of transformative leadership, her impact extends globally, empowering thousands to achieve their potential and driving meaningful change in the advertising and communications industry.

Louise Prashad

8
Chief HR Officer
Diageo

Louise is the Executive member responsible for the design and implementation of Diageo's Inclusion and Diversity strategy. In 2020, Louise led the creation of Diageo's progressive Ethnic Inclusion & Diversity Framework to support markets to define multi-year plans covering representation, capability, and external partnerships that impact society. This also included setting an ambitious goal to increase ethnically diverse representation across leadership to 45% by 2030, and after three years, representation stands at 43%. The collective sense of responsibility that Louise has fostered has led to more than 75% of Diageo’s global workforce, and 97% of our leadership population, disclosing their ethnic background. This is believed to be one of the highest disclosure levels in a global company.

Jon Holt

9
Chief Executive & Senior Partner
KPMG UK

Jon Holt has played a pivotal role in supporting the firm's award-winning Ethnicity Strategy. As a member of the Inclusive Leadership Board, Jon champions initiatives promoting Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity and ensures their integration into the firm's business strategy. Jon's commitment is evident through his support of employee networks, our Black Lives Action Plan and the Black Heritage Steering Group. These initiatives have significantly contributed to the advancement and experience of Black heritage colleagues. Outside of KPMG, Jon serves as a trustee of the Patchwork Foundation. This involvement reflects his broader commitment to social impact and equity. Jon is passionate on supporting people from social-economic backgrounds and has recently introduced a pilot employing ex-offenders, alongside the business’ broader efforts to support prisoners and reformed prison leavers. Jon has made a significant impact on fostering a more inclusive and diverse environment at KPMG UK, empowering individuals from all backgrounds to reach their full potential.

Jonathan Hummel

10
Chief Risk Officer of the Americas
Deutsche Bank

Jonathan Hummel, Chief Risk Officer of the Americas at Deutsche Bank, champions diversity, equity, and inclusion as a co-Senior Sponsor of the US Black Leadership Forum. Hummel sets an exemplary standard for senior leadership engagement in DEI through his active participation in BLF programming. He is an influential advocate across the organization and Deutsche Bank has notably increased Black representation at senior levels in the US. Hummel’s involvement in the reverse mentor program highlights his dedication to understanding diverse perspectives and advocating for inclusivity. Additionally, Hummel's commitment extends beyond the corporate sphere as a board member of the Leviticus Fund, focusing on community development and addressing systemic inequalities. His efforts underscore a holistic approach to fostering an inclusive culture and driving meaningful change within and outside Deutsche Bank.

Emma Taylor

11
Chief People Officer
Tesco

As Tesco's Chief People Officer, Emma Taylor leads the retailer's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, impacting over 330,000 colleagues. She sponsors the Gender Equality Network and the Black Action Plan's Talent Equity Pillar, focusing on breaking down barriers for underrepresented employees. Emma's strategic efforts include setting ambitious targets for 2030 to combat systemic racism, enhancing ethnically diverse leadership, and increasing representation through partnerships. She has significantly contributed to the development and success of the Diverse Talent Program, which has seen remarkable achievements in promoting and broadening career opportunities for its participants. Under her guidance, Tesco has been recognized for its commitment to DEI, notably being shortlisted in the Top 25 for the 2022 Ethnicity Awards Maturity Matrix. Emma's work not only advances Tesco's internal culture but also aligns with its mission to reflect the diversity of the communities it serves.

Nick Mackenzie

12
Chief Executive Officer
Greene King

Nick Mackenzie is the Chief Executive Officer at Greene King, where he champions the drive towards Everyday Inclusion, an inclusive strategy to foster a sense of belonging for all. Under his leadership, Greene King has committed to being a truly anti-racist organization through the "Calling Time on Racism" manifesto, outlining numerous initiatives to eradicate discriminatory behavior. Nick has also championed an Inclusion and Diversity function and actively participated as a mentee in the company's Reverse Mentoring program, gaining valuable insights from diverse mentors. As a member of the WIHTL board, he advocates for inclusion across the Hospitality, Travel, and Leisure industries. A vocal advocate for diversity, Nick has spoken at various conferences and podcasts, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and advocacy for change. Moreover, Greene King has received recognition at prestigious awards ceremonies for his commitment to diversity and inclusion under his leadership.

Diana Conrad

13
Chief People Officer
GSK

Diana Conrad is GSK’s Chief People Officer. Diana champions equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all. She is passionate about embedding DEI principles into every aspect of life at GSK from recruitment, training, development and how GSK evaluates its managers. Diana is incredibly proud of the progress GSK is making towards its 2025 gender and ethnicity leadership representation aspirations, because she deeply believes our leadership should reflect our GSK people and our people should reflect the communities in which we work and hire. Outside of GSK, Diana supports STEM equity initiatives, mentoring programs and campaigns promoting racial and ethnic participation in businesses. Diana is passionate about supporting charitable causes, including sponsoring education for underprivileged people globally.

Charlie Wagner

14
Chief Financial Officer
Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Charlie is the CFO at Vertex and a passionate advocate for inclusion, diversity, and equity. He leads a multi-faceted global function that prioritizes IDEI across their talent management efforts, including recruitment, engagement, and development. Through partnerships with professional organizations, proactive networking, and robust employee referrals, he has fostered a diverse talent pipeline that has significantly expanded the diversity of thought, experience, background, and demographics within his organization during his 5-year tenure. Since 2021, his leadership has addressed gaps in employee experience across gender and racial/ethnic groups by enhancing transparency in talent management processes, expanding equitable access to development opportunities, and creating forums for meaningful employee engagement. As a board member of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (GBCC), he actively supports initiatives promoting economic inclusion and policy development, such as the Massachusetts Policy Network and events addressing the Racial Wealth Gap and the Future of Work.

Matthew Truman

15
Co-Founder & Executive Chair
True

Matt is a co-founder and executive chair of consumer-focused investment and innovation advisory firm, True. Founding True in 2013, Matt and his partner Paul Cocker, are passionate about tackling educational inequality and work in partnership with 'Careers and Enterprise' and 'Universify,' both charities focused on closing the educational gap, with initiatives targeted geographically to reach those from a disadvantaged socioeconomic background. True's initiatives include summer schemes and a "portfolio day," where CEOs and staff engage with under-resourced children, demystifying roles and fostering inclusion. Moreover, True is committed to achieving sustainable equity and inclusion by providing diversity and inclusion training and working with change champion consultants, contributors, and speakers from various intersections of the global community. With its own proprietary innovation advisory arm advising the likes of Walmart, Diageo, Warner Brothers, Johnson & Johnsons, Primark and M&S, True is one of the fastest growing firms in Europe and well-placed to impact lasting change.

Eric Miquelon

16
North America President
Avanade

As the NA President of Avanade, Eric Miquelon advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, mainly through his leadership and sponsorship of INSPIRE, Avanade's Black Employee Network. Under his guidance, INSPIRE has seen remarkable growth, expanding and fostering a community of over 450 members. Eric's commitment is demonstrated through funding annual professional retreats and monthly mentorship meetings and serving as a bridge between INSPIRE and Avanade's executive team. His efforts include sponsoring an Inclusion & Diversity training focused on Inclusive Leadership and championing significant events like Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, sharing insights and promoting empathy. Additionally, Eric actively supports the INSPIRE Social Justice Hackathon, encouraging innovative solutions to diversity challenges in tech. His dedication extends to reciprocal mentorship programs, significantly aiding career advancement for Black employees at Avanade.

Karen Sedgwick

17
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Sempra

Karen Sedgwick serves as Sempra's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, serving as a strategic partner to the executive team to maximize value creation for the company and its stakeholders. Karen has championed employee engagement, including additional training, team building and resources introduced to support hybrid and flexible work arrangements. Karen also supported comprehensive training programs to promote a culture of diversity and inclusion, reaching employees at all levels of the organization. Beyond Sempra, her dedication to social impact is evident through her volunteer work with organizations such as Promises2Kids and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Karen is also involved in promoting DEI within the arts community as a board member of The Old Globe Theatre. Her dedication has earned her recognition as a top Woman in Business by the San Diego Business Journal. Sempra has received numerous accolades from DiversityInc, JUST 100 and Newsweek America’s Most Responsible Companies.

Renata Correia Cubas

18
Partner and Member of the Executive Comitee
Mattos Filho Advogados

Renata Cubas, Partner and Member of the Executive Committee at Mattos Filho Advogados sponsors the firm's racial equity initiative and affinity group SOMA. Renata works tirelessly to attract, develop, and retain non-white talents, particularly those self-declared as Black or Brown. In 2023, SOMA raised awareness about structural racism in Brazil. It promoted racial equity in society and the legal market through affirmative actions, exclusive programs for non-white trainees and lawyers, career development investments, scholarships, mentorship, and promotion opportunities. Renata also represents Mattos Filho in the Legal Alliance for Racial Equity, comprising 12 law firms, and is a member of the Executive Committee at Aliança and Instituto Mattos Filho. Additionally, Renata mentors non-white professionals within and outside the firm and founded Women in Tax in 2019 to spotlight women in the tax profession, particularly Black women, through various initiatives, including mentorship programs. 

Matt Elliott

19
Chief People Officer
Bank of Ireland

Under Matt’s leadership as CPO, the bank set board metrics on ethnic diversity, aiming to mirror the diversity seen in society. Matt led multiple initiatives, such as virtual reality ethnicity unconscious bias experiences, mandatory 'Inclusive Hiring' training for hiring managers to promote diverse hiring practices, 'Inclusive Dialogue' sessions with ethnically diverse colleagues, and talent acceleration programs. BOI monitors hiring, and now appoints ethnically diverse employees on a basis representative of society. As the sponsor for the Network, Matt also advocates for inclusion by participating in cultural and religious celebrations, this dedication has led to higher engagement scores among colleagues from ethnic minority backgrounds. Under Matt's guidance, BoI received 'Investing in Ethnicity' level 1 status and established a Race Action TaskForce to further progress in this area. His commitment extends to societal impact, including commissioning research to identify and remove barriers to work.

Stephanie Pierce

20
Chief Executive Officer, Dreyfus & Mellon
BNY Mellon Investment Management 

Stephanie M. Pierce is the CEO of Dreyfus and Mellon at BNY Mellon Investment Management (IM) where she manages the firm’s index and money markets businesses. Throughout her career, Stephanie has been a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusion, creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. She established Dreyfus and Mellon's DEI Council to foster a diverse culture and raise awareness of Belonging & Inclusion issues. Stephanie has the distinction of launching strategies that place Belonging & Inclusion at the center of the investment process. In 2022, she spearheaded the launch of the Black Opportunity for Learned and Development (BOLD®) share class in partnership with Howard University, supporting students' educational journeys. In 2023, she launched the BNY Mellon Women's Opportunities ETF, investing in companies with gender-equitable practices. She also helped launch Dreyfus’ SPARKSM share class enabling clients to direct a donation to an eligible not-for-profit of their choice, while investing in Dreyfus’ largest fund.

Andrew Jolly

Partner
Slaughter and May

Andrew Jolly is a Partner and head of one of the Corparate Groups at Slaughter and May and a member of the Race Fairness Partner-led Working Group, where, since 2020, he has spearheaded efforts to recruit, retain, and promote ethnically diverse talent. Achievements include launching mentoring and leadership programs for people of color and sponsoring the Black Counsel Forum, engaging over 120 organizations. Andrew is the sponsoring partner of DIVERSE, our employee network which celebrates and promotes social, racial and ethnic diversity, where he supports events with inclusion leaders such as Baroness Lawrence. He also chairs the firm's Social Mobility Working Group, leading efforts to increase opportunities for socially mobile talent including people of color. Under his leadership, Slaughter and May became the first major law firm to set public social mobility targets. Externally, Andrew collaborates with other law firms to advance DEI efforts through initiatives like Legal CORE, a collective co-founded by the firm, tackling the underrepresentation of people of color in the legal sector.

Laurie Myers

Director, ESG Strategy & Engagement
Merck & Co.

Laurie Myers serves as Director of ESG Strategy and Engagement at Merck, where, as a member of the League of Employees of African Descent (LEAD) global leadership team, she leads allyship efforts and co-founded the company's global allyship initiative, driving programs to foster inclusivity and engagement, employee retention, and business impact. Merck has seen significant progress in fostering informed allyship and working together to support underrepresented groups. She co-founded the Black Employees Allyship Mutual Mentoring program, facilitating open dialogue between Black employees and allies to increase active allyship. The team launched an Ally Resource Center for LEAD, providing resources on racism and allyship, then broadened it to all EBRGs. Laurie participates in global town halls, speaks at conferences, and shares tips for fostering diversity and inclusion. Recently selected as a Board Member at a non-profit school, Laurie will leverage her expertise to create an inclusive learning environment for diverse students.

Natasha Harrison

Managing Partner
Pallas

Natasha Harrison is the Founding and Managing Partner of Pallas, a law firm founded in 2022 with a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Under her leadership, Pallas has become a majority women-owned firm with significant representation of people of color and LGBTQ+ employees. She implemented an ambitious ESG strategy involving all staff, focusing on pro bono work, DEI initiatives, and environmental pledges, which included establishing a dedicated DEI team to achieve diversity parity by 2025. Moreover, Pallas has committed to various diversity initiatives, including the Equal Representation in Arbitration and the Law Society Women in Law pledge. Outside of Pallas, Natasha has guided women through discriminatory claims when they have found themselves dismissed following pregnancy or childbirth. She also serves on the Changemakers Board of The Brokerage in London, a social mobility charity, and has received numerous awards recognizing her influence and advocacy for DEI in law.

Sharon Sharples

Director, Operational Risk & Risk Oversight Chief of Staff
Barclays

Sharon Sharples, Operational Risk & Risk Oversight Chief of Staff at Barclays, leads DEI initiatives by co-chairing the UK Employee Gender Resource Group Win UK. With over 160 volunteers, Win UK drives career development, community engagement, and advocacy for workplace diversity. Sharon fosters a supportive environment, empowering colleagues to achieve remarkable outcomes. She also leads the Risk DEI Development & Sponsorship Service, overseeing a HALO mentoring scheme for diverse colleagues, providing global speed networking sessions, supporting colleague sponsorship. Sharon collaborates with other ERGs for intersectional events and actively supports charities, mentoring females and aiding underprivileged youth charities. Her dedication to diversity extends to exploring diverse recruitment for Early Careers, ensuring all initiatives prioritize inclusivity and equity, making her a valuable leader driving positive change at Barclays and beyond.

Jonny McQuarrie

Chief Operating Officer
Booker

Jonny McQuarrie, Chief Operating Officer at Booker and a senior leader within the Tesco Group, champions racial and ethnic diversity with over two decades of dedication. As a driving force of Booker’s Race & Ethnicity Network and an avid supporter of the impactful Black Action Plan, he has steadfastly promoted inclusivity and supported Black and Asian communities, customers, and colleagues. Jonny’s initiatives include improving diversity and actively mentoring ethnically diverse talent across the Tesco Group, underscoring his commitment to creating a more inclusive workplace. His leadership has helped facilitate significant dialogues on diversity at senior levels and broadened Tesco’s director involvement in DEI efforts, amplifying their reach and impact. Celebrating cultural differences through various events, and supporting Black-owned businesses, are hallmarks of his approach to fostering an equitable environment. Jonny’s influential role in Tesco’s DEI journey, including his advocacy in the “If not now, when?” campaign, showcases his enduring commitment to driving meaningful change.

Eugene Chiulli

Managing Director, Chief Financial Officer, Nomura Holding America; Global CFO, Instinet Holdings Incorporated
Nomura Holdings America

Eugene Chiulli is a Managing Director and CFO of Nomura Holding America and its major subsidiaries and joined Nomura in 2019. Eugene spent over 30 years in Retail Banking, Asset Management, Wealth Management, and Capital Market sectors. Eugene is an executive sponsor of Lead, the Black and Latino affinity network, and ally to the women’s network. His strategic vision led to a partnership with the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), providing valuable work experience to young scholars. Through initiatives like mentoring sessions with local students, Eugene actively fosters a culture of curiosity and continuous learning among finance professionals. His leadership not only drives Nomura's success but also makes a tangible difference in the community and the industry at large. He was featured in a Wall Street Journal article, “Keeping the Human Edge in IT-Driven Finance” leading efforts towards digital transformation, encouraging financial professionals to maintain a culture of curiosity.

Chrisma Jackson

Director of Cyber Security and Mission Computing; CISO
Sandia National Laboratories

Chrisma Jackson, Director of Cyber Security and Mission Computing/CISO at Sandia National Laboratories mentors and fosters the next generation of technical and managerial leaders within the Black community. Her commitment to mentorship has led to numerous promotions and acceptance into Sandia’s leadership programs. Chrisma has been instrumental in strategizing engagement with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), notably through her regular interactions with Prairie View A&M University and participation in their Innovation Week Panel. Under her leadership, the engagement with ethnically diverse teams from HBCUs has resulted in the setting and exceeding of strategic goals, improving research funding, and establishing partnerships that amplify the presence and success of minority students in STEM fields. Beyond her work with HBCUs, she has partnered with the Nuclear Power Institute to extend outreach to underserved communities in Texas, highlighting her dedication to expanding opportunities and visibility for underrepresented groups in high-tech sectors.

David Bunch

Country Chair
Shell UK

As the Country Chair of Shell UK, David Bunch leads with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Under his leadership, Shell UK has surpassed its 2025 diversity targets, actively engaging with business leaders to prioritise DEI and hosting impactful events like the "Breakfast Club" series for intimate leader discussions. Bunch's efforts, including sponsoring Black Tech Fest and advocating for ethnicity pay gap reporting, have significantly enhanced the representation of people of colour at all organizational levels. By fostering a culture of openness and respect, he has improved employee engagement and performance, demonstrating his dedication to making Shell one of the most inclusive workplaces globally. Through initiatives like "An Evening with Shell" and partnerships to support socio-economically disadvantaged individuals, Bunch drives positive change within and beyond Shell, aligning with Shell UK’s social investment ambition to help 15,000 people across the UK into jobs with a focus on the energy transition by 2035.

Tom Lye

Category Director
Tesco

Tom Lye is a Category Director at Tesco PLC, where he plays a pivotal role in supporting the company's race and ethnicity agenda, serving as the Director Sponsor for the Tesco Black Action Plan's Commercial Equity Pillar since 2021. Tom is committed to achieving accurate representation within Tesco's supply base, actively engaging with partner organizations to influence broader change. A passionate advocate for equity and representation, Tom speaks at events promoting gender inclusivity and the Tesco Black Action Plan. He also mentors ethnically diverse colleagues, facilitating their professional growth within the company. Tom's dedication to allyship extends to supporting and championing Black-owned businesses, fostering inclusion within Tesco's ecosystem. Tom's efforts have contributed to significant progress in supplier inclusion, which is evident in the doubling of Tesco's COGs across Black-owned/led businesses.

Babette Claas

Director business@school - A BCG INITIATIVE
Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

Babette Claas, Director of business@school at BCG, has dedicated nearly 25 years to fostering education, diversity, and inclusion. Under her leadership, business@school has impacted 30,000 high school students across 6 European countries, supported by yearly 450 coaches from BCG and partner companies Babette's role extends beyond educational initiatives; she is also the Head of the Colorful Network at BCG Munich, where she has championed cultural and ethnic diversity through events, discussions, and mentoring since 2023. Her commitment to cross-network collaboration within BCG, such as with the Social Impact and FirstGen networks, emphasizes her belief in the power of mutual support and learning. Babette's influence reaches outside BCG through her advisory board position at 21future.org, where she supports the expansion of in-school learning journeys for disadvantaged youth in Germany, and her engagement with assistscholars.org to promote educational equity. She also contributes to gender equity through her involvement with workingmoms.de and women in PR Networks, advocating for working mothers and women's advancement.

Sasha Covington

COO
JLL

Sasha Covington, COO at JLL Ltd, actively mentors young talent through initiatives like the Social Mobility Foundation, raising awareness of these challenges and fostering inclusion. Sasha also sets high standards for inclusive hiring practices at JLL and leads initiatives such as podcasts and panel discussions on DEI topics. Her efforts have earned her recognition, including being named one of the Bisnow Top 41 Women in Real Estate. Sasha is also actively involved in the CREFC’s DEI steering group and spearheads new initiatives, highlighting Future Leaders from disadvantaged backgrounds in Real Estate, Banking, and Finance. Moreover, nominated for awards such as Burberry's UK Diversity Champion and the European Diversity Mentor, Sasha advocates for breaking the glass ceiling and fostering diversity and inclusion in the real estate industry.

Andrew Benton

Executive Managing Director, Head of Northern Europe & MEACA
Natixis Investment Managers

With a focus on psychological safety, employee well-being, and the benefits of cultural diversity, Andrew Benton, Executive Managing Director, Head of Northern Europe & MEACA at Natixis Investment Managers, drives initiatives to enhance employee motivation and retention. He champions the Multicultural, Diversity & Engagement (MADE) group, fostering a sense of visibility and community among underrepresented colleagues through various programs and events. Andrew's commitment to DEI is evident in his leadership role in the Diversity Project UK's Advisory Council, aiming for a diverse and inclusive UK investment industry focusing on gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic background. Under his guidance, Natixis IM supports initiatives like the 10,000 Intern Foundation and the Scholarship Programme in partnership with The London Academy of Excellence Tottenham, removing financial barriers and providing career development opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

Mike Morris

Vice President, Business Consulting
EPAM

Mike Morris serves as the Vice President of Business Consulting at EPAM. Additionally, he holds the role of Executive Sponsor for LEAD, the DEI group focusing on Lifting Employees of African Descent. Mike's involvement in LEAD programs and support for previous leaders led to his appointment as executive sponsor. In this role, he works with the team to advance budgeting, clarify strategic goals, and align with company-wide DEI objectives. Mike also serves on the board of High Tech Ministries. During his tenure on the Board and as president of the ministry, Mike has spearheaded various initiatives to build a more inclusive community. These efforts have resulted in a more diverse board, inclusive stage presentations, and co-sponsorship of a women's mentoring group called Ambassadors. As a result, there has been a noticeable increase in diversity among event attendees and a boost in women's representation as table hosts.

Judith Haupt

Managing Director
CONTRACT South Africa

Judith Haupt is the Managing Director at CONTRACT South Africa, where she spearheads initiatives to train young Black consultants in Organisational Development. She is also a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Community of Practice member, fostering a more inclusive environment. She is involved in the World of CONTRACT trust, which benefits Black women employees by sharing profits for the past three years. Additionally, Judith serves on the Board of Women for Africa, advocating for the participation of Black women in leadership programs. Outside of CONTRACT, Judith contributes to developing young adults through initiatives like iThemba Labantu and is actively involved in creating a Global Inclusive Leadership program. She also leads a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee at Mainstream Renewable Energies SA, where she educates and challenges the organization to embrace DEI principles.

Joseph Schaller

Associate Vice President, Supply Chain Management
Merck & Co.

As Associate Vice President of Supply Chain Management at Merck & Co. Inc., Joseph Schaller excels in promoting DEI within the organization. He champions the advancement of women and people of color, achieving leadership teams with diversity exceeding 50%. Joe is deeply involved in mentoring across various Employee Business Resource Groups, including NextGen, Women, and Alianza (Latinx) Networks, improving individual career growth. As executive sponsor for the PA Chapter of APA EBRG, he led the chapter to notable engagement levels by actively participating in and funding events. Through the Merck Skills First / OneTen initiative, he collaborated with site leaders to innovatively restructure role requirements, fostering opportunities for non-degreed candidates, enhancing Merck's talent pipeline. Additionally, his contribution as a co-panelist at the Ascend Greater Philadelphia 2023 conference underscores his dedication to guiding early career professionals. Joe’s efforts embody his commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive work environment at Merck.

Eric Dube

President and Chief Executive Officer
Travere Therapeutics

Eric Dube serves as the President and CEO at Travere Therapeutics, where he actively champions diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives. As the executive sponsor of Travere's internal DEIB council, he oversees company-wide training on conscious inclusion and active allyship, fostering a diverse, inclusive, patient-inspired, and purpose-driven culture. Passionate about DEIB, Eric supports recruitment, retention, and promotion efforts within Travere that are aligned with inclusive practices. Travere boasts a diverse workforce, with 41% of US employees self-reporting as diverse. Under his leadership, Travere co-founded the first-of-its-kind Rare Disease Diversity Coalition (RDDC) to improve health equity within the rare disease community. Additionally, Eric co-founded the San Diego branch of OUTbio, empowering LGBTQ+ professionals in the biotech industry. Recognized for his advocacy, Eric serves on various committees, including the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), contributing to workforce development and DEIB efforts.

Nicholas Parrotta

President of Digital Transformation Solutions (DTS) and Chief Digital & Information Officer
HARMAN

Nicholas Parrotta, President of Digital Transformation Solutions (DTS) and Chief Digital & Information Officer at HARMAN, steadfastly advocates for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Nicholas exemplifies his commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where all voices are valued, with a leadership team boasting 45% women’s representation and 90% people of color. Moreover, as the Executive Sponsor for the HARMAN Pride Employee Resource Group, he actively supports LGBTQ+ employees, prioritizing inclusivity in decision-making processes. Nicholas remains dedicated to promoting DEI and participating in panel discussions, fireside chats, and media interviews. His influence extends to prestigious events like the Forbes CIO Next Summit and CES Round Tables, where he shares insights on DEI and technology. Recognized as one of the Top CIOs in the US by the National Diversity Council, Nicholas’s leadership drives positive change, fostering innovation and resilience.

Katherine Verducci

CEO and Co-Founder
1903 Public Relations

Katherine Verducci, CEO and Co-Founder of 1903 Public Relations, established the firm in 2019, breaking ground for underrepresented founders while championing industry diversity, equity, and inclusion. With a background in Silicon Valley, Katherine witnessed disparities for women and people of color, driving her commitment to driving representation for overlooked founders. Over the past two years, she has focused on elevating non-traditional founders, securing opportunities, and increasing visibility for women and people of color in the business press. Katherine's advocacy extends to LGBTQ+ business and technology leaders, securing notable opportunities such as TEDx Talks, Forbes profiles, and Fast Company features. Her efforts have garnered recognition, with 1903 PR winning awards for their work with LGBTQ+, people of color, and female founders, including PRNews’ 2022 Agency Elite Top 100 and multiple Globee and Stevie awards.

Julie Day

Global Talent Acquisition Leader
Corteva Agriscience

Julie Day serves as the Global Talent Acquisition Leader at Corteva Agriscience, focusing on leading the team responsible for the implementing the systems, policies and processes for all hiring. Her team is responsible for partnering with the business to identify early career opportunities, sourcing external talent from diverse backgrounds and fostering internal growth and development. She has assisted with initiatives to connect with diverse talent through University events and organizations such as MANRRS, resulting in impactful hires. Julie advocates for diversity and inclusion by embedding inclusive practices into the hiring processes, continual education to the team, training hiring managers on debiasing the hiring processes, ensuring representation in marketing materials and through mentoring. Julie believes in fostering empathy through curiosity and listening, promoting a sense of belonging and acceptance for all. Her approach centers on open conversation, seeking understanding, and guiding transformative thinking within and beyond the company.

Troels Bjerg

Regional CEO Asia-Pacific, Americas, Germany & Global Business Performance
ISS

Troels Bjerg is the Regional CEO for Asia-Pacific, Americas, and Germany and the Global Business Performance lead at ISS. He has been instrumental in fostering diversity and inclusion efforts within the company through his active sponsorship of the Global Abilities Employee Resource Group (ERG). Troels has consistently supported various initiatives, including hosting webinars for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, showcasing his commitment to inclusive leadership. He has spearheaded impactful initiatives to broaden understanding of diversity within the organization, emphasizing mental and physical abilities. Under Troels' guidance, the Global Abilities ERG has flourished, creating a vibrant community of colleagues motivated to support one another, fostering belonging, and cultivating an inclusive culture at ISS. Beyond ISS, Troels extends his commitment to DEI through initiatives like the "SHINE" program, supporting young individuals with special needs and empowering them to overcome barriers and realize their potential.

Emma Botfield

VP of Strategy Delivery & Execution
RS Group

Emma Botfield has recently secured a new role within RS Group as VP for Strategy Delivery & Execution with a drive to gain all perspectives across the World to ensure Purpose, Vision, Strategy and outcomes are delivered. Emma’s previous role as the Managing Director for the UK & Ireland region at RS Group, oversaw the largest market within the company. Emma spearheaded efforts in a traditional industry to create a diverse team, setting a benchmark across Europe for gender and ethnicity representation. As an ally of EmbRace and a sponsor for Elevate and Women in Sales, Emma actively promotes diversity and inclusion within RS Group and beyond. She contributes to media articles advocating for the benefits of diversity and speaks at various events, including Health & Safety forums, on the importance of recognizing and embracing differences. Emma also champions diversity in procurement through participation in CIPS round tables.

John Langley

Corporate & Investment Banking Chief Operating Officer and Head of International
Wells Fargo

John Langley is the Corporate & Investment Banking Chief Operating Officer and Head of International at Wells Fargo. Assigned by the CIB CEO, John leads the division's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Priority, focusing on promoting employee resource network engagement and ensuring fair representation across the business. John initiated an effort for employees to self-identify their ethnicity, emphasizing Wells Fargo's commitment to reflecting London's diverse cultures and nationalities. He is also a Fellow of the Sutton Trust, advocating for social mobility through programs and policy influence. Beyond Wells Fargo, John supports DEI by sponsoring the Black British Business Awards and emphasizing the importance of diversity in fostering inclusive environments. He champions DEI in various forums, including regulatory discussions and press interviews. He continues to focus on advancing DEI initiatives, including neurodiversity and disability inclusion, until they are fully integrated into business as usual.