Diverse & Inclusive Leaders

When Vivien Burnett speaks of her climb from the bustling streets of southeast London to the pinnacle of HR at HH Global, you can't help but feel the strength of her purpose. We bring you a tale of passion, not just for people but for the diversity that makes us thrive. Alongside Vivien, Thomas Huscroft joins us to share his transformation from banking to a champion of inclusion, proving that the heart of a company lies in its embrace of every individual's uniqueness.Our conversation journeys through the fabric of leadership, interwoven with personal growth and the courage to champion others. Vivien recounts her eye-opening gap year that expanded her world view, sowing the seeds for her dedication to creating an inclusive corporate culture. Thomas, with equal fervor, discusses the profound effect belonging has on every facet of the workplace, from engagement to mental health. Together, they are the embodiment of progress, illustrating how diversity and inclusion are not just HR buzzwords but the cor

Embark on an enriching odyssey with Josyln Dumas, an expert in the realm of Inclusion and Diversity at Elsevier, whose narrative illustrates the profound connection between the vibrancy of her dance background and her professional triumphs in talent development. Joslyn's story is a testament to the transformative potential of the arts, where her rise from the field of advertising to the pinnacle of IND work emerges as a beacon for nurturing talent and embracing diversity.Feel the rhythm of perseverance and empowerment as Joslyn recounts her journey from an introspective individual to a dynamo of confidence, all through the grace of dance. Her personal anecdotes lay the foundation for a broader conversation on the necessity of creating inclusive spaces, where the arts serve as a vehicle for personal and community growth. The thread of dance weaves through the discussion, portraying a rich tapestry of generational influence and the enduring impact of creative expression in shaping inclusive environments.Ve

Prepare to be whisked away on an insightful journey with Leila McKenzie-Delis, as I sit with the unparalleled Marc Coleman of Unleash. Together, we dissect the exhilarating evolution of the HR events industry and the nuanced art of fostering indispensable human connections in today's digital world. From Marc's unexpected shift from science to HR, to the extraordinary challenges and triumphs of a remote-first events business, his story is one of resilience and innovation amid the ever-changing corporate landscape.As the conversation plunges into the metamorphosis of HR, feel the pulse of a sector once confined to the background now catapulting to the forefront of strategic business change. You'll be gripped by tales of technological revolution and how employee empowerment has reshaped the corporate environment, culminating in an era where Chief Human Resources Officers are the new architects of workplace culture and connectivity. Our discussion pinpoints pivotal moments, like our experience at a

When Dr. Chuck Wallington, a visionary in the corporate realm and a passionate storyteller, graced our podcast, he didn't just recount his journey from a curious child to an illustrious executive at Cone Health, he also illuminated the path for future Black leaders. With a freshly minted book in hand, "A Seat at the Seasweet Table," Chuck offers an intimate glimpse into the successes and struggles of 30 Black executives navigating the tumultuous waters of today's business world. Our conversation ventured into the stark reality of African American men's scarcity in corporate leadership and how this drought limits mentorship and growth opportunities, an issue that resonates with my own experience as a Chinese, female, millennial leader.This episode is a melting pot of poignant reflections and practical wisdom, examining the underrepresentation issues in executive roles and celebrating the triumphs of those who have broken through the glass ceilings. We delve into the stories of these ex

The story of DeShaun Wise Porter, VP and Global Head of Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement at Hilton, always reminds all of us about the profound impact one's heritage can have on their aspirations and achievements. DeShaun's journey from the finance world to the pinnacle of HR leadership is both fascinating and inspiring, embodying the tenacity and dedication required to build inclusive and thriving workplaces. She shares invaluable insights on the transcendent nature of people-centric skills and how, through authenticity and mentorship, one can lift others while achieving personal success.The resilience encoded in DeShaun's DNA, inherited from ancestors like her Tuskegee Airman grandfather, is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Our conversation unveils how this legacy has not only shaped her approach to life and work but also reinforced her belief in the symbiotic relationship between economic growth and ethical action. The narrative of her family's enduring strength serves a

As a parent, witnessing your child encounter barriers can ignite a passion for change that resonates far beyond the confines of home. That's precisely what happened to Nathan Coe, CEO of AutoTrader, when he saw his daughters confront gender biases. On our show, Nathan walks us through his awakening to the realities of diversity and inclusion, illustrating how these revelations have transformed AutoTrader into a beacon of equality, offering lessons that extend to us all about the essence of leadership in today's ever-evolving workplace.With roots firmly planted in the working class, Nathan's journey to the helm of AutoTrader is a narrative of ambition, defying societal expectations, and the relentless pursuit of a culture steeped in positivity and social mobility. In our intimate conversation, he peels back the layers of traditional CEO roles, advocating for a leadership style that prizes trust and personal connection over top-down commands. This approach, he argues, is not only more aligned wit

When Melody Moore took a courageous leap, leaving behind a tenured NHS position to start anew in Canada, little did she know the journey would transform her into a DEI luminary and an inspiring voice for change. This episode peers into Mel's riveting narrative, tracing the pivotal shifts that launched her from healthcare to a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion, now sharing her insights as a consultant and author. Her story is a vibrant tapestry, woven with threads of leadership, self-discovery, and the profound belief in the impact one can have on the world.As Mel's tale unfolds, we tread the path of integrating identity and experience into the professional realm, touching on the nuances of LGBTQ+ experiences and the solo voyage of single parenthood. In a candid exchange, I share my own strides as a single parent in the corporate sphere, alongside the lessons of empathy and efficiency parenthood instills. We then venture into the heart of my upcoming book, exploring an innovative team mode

From the remnants of a war-torn Lebanon to the zenith of entrepreneurship, Tony Jamous shares the odyssey that led him to champion the remote work revolution with Oyster, a beacon for global job democratization. His tale is one of triumph over personal and professional battles, a testament to the resilience that forges not just successful business leaders, but pioneers of social change. We explore how Tony's dedication to mental health, personal growth, and societal impact intertwines with his business acumen to create opportunities that bridge economic divides and foster wealth equality across borders.Venture with us as we unravel the fabric of mission-driven businesses, where profit meets purpose, and where the prosperity of people is as valued as the bottom line. Tony's insights illuminate the solitary nature of entrepreneurship and the challenges that come with fundraising and scaling a business. Yet, amidst these hurdles, we uncover the power of diversity, the importance of nurturing real-world

What if diversity wasn't a zero-sum game? What could you achieve if you understood the power of connecting with diverse audiences and truly grasped the value of stakeholder engagement? Join us as we take an in-depth look at diversity and inclusion in the business landscape with Alicin Reidy Williamson, Chief Diversity and Culture Officer at Yahoo. This isn't just about ticking boxes and making sure the workplace is representative. It's about how a diverse and inclusive environment can drive positive change and prosperity.Alicin gives us a masterclass in communication and leadership. She shares their insights on the importance of resilience, the abundance mindset that comes with embracing diversity, and the vital role that a Chief Diversity Officer plays in an organization. We address the misconception that diversity is a zero-sum game and instead focus on the benefits it brings to innovation, economy, and the very identity of a business. For those interested in the role of the CDO, she even pro

What if the secret to success goes beyond financial achievements? Join us as we explore this concept with our guest, Chris Mouskoundi, Non Executive Director, The Ocean Partnership. Chris takes us along his unique career journey, starting with his upbringing in an immigrant family that instilled in him a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. We get an insider's view into the role his Greek-American background played in shaping his passion for diversity, inclusion, and equity, and how it guided him to his surprising love for tax and led to his active involvement in various boards and organizations.Now, imagine a workplace where diversity and inclusion aren't just buzzwords, but the foundation of success and innovation. We dive into this critical topic, revealing that a shocking 30% of minority individuals worry about fitting in, which inhibits their full contribution. Through sharing my personal coming out journey and its impact on my career, along with the economic significance of diversity,

Have you ever wondered how a person's humble beginnings can shape their journey to becoming an influential leader and advocate for diversity and inclusion? Join us as we sit down with a phenomenal woman, Joanne Conway, who turns her challenging childhood into a powerful narrative of resilience and success. Joanne, the Head of Inclusion and Culture, International at DLA Piper, shares her story of growing up in disadvantaged areas and offers practical tips on how to navigate uncertainty and build strong networks.As we delve deeper into the conversation, we explore a topic that often stirs up discomfort – privilege. We share personal journeys of grappling with this concept and discuss how leaders can reflect on and address their privilege to foster inclusivity. Joanne even provides a sneak peek into our ongoing research on creating a framework for leaders to make systemic changes in organisations. The discussion doesn't stop there. We dive into the intricacies of diversity and inclusion in organization

Prepare for an insightful conversation with Jon Dutton, the man behind British Cycling.  With his career spanning over 28 years in the sports field, Jon has taken the reins of leadership at illustrious events like the PGA, Rugby League World Cup 2021, and now, British Cycling. We dive into his journey, the power of resilience, the importance of a diverse and supportive culture within an organization, and how to navigate the challenges our complex world throws at us.The sports field is not just about games and records; it's also a mirror reflecting societal issues. Underneath the glitz and glamour, sports have been impacted by the weaponization of racism, misogyny, and homophobia. Jon shares his unique insights on how these issues have filtered into the sports world, the role of media in combating these inequalities, and the value of role models in our society. We also discuss the constant evolution of culture and the changing expectations of younger generations in our increasingly digitized world.Wrappin

Jenny Packwood, a name synonymous with sustainability and leadership, graces our podcast with her inspiring journey. Her story begins in the agency world as a PR professional and segues into her current role as KFC's Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, where she is transforming the global brand. As we navigate through her two-decade career, we delve into the pivotal role she's played in embracing the shift from CSR to ESG, reflecting the changes and expectations in the business world today.Life, however, has a way of throwing curveballs. Jenny courageously shares her personal battle when her late-husband was diagnosed with aggressive cancer, a struggle that deeply affected her mental health. The empathy and support she received during this challenging period from her KFC family has sparked a passion within her to actively address mental health issues in the workplace. Our conversation also highlights the untapped potential and resilience of single parents in the workforce, a personal

What would you do to ensure your children have limitless opportunities? Our intriguing guest, Joshua Partridge,  Vice President & Head of EMEA at Yahoo! an Australian-raised father of two living in London, shares his enlightening views on parenting, and how his multicultural upbringing influenced his perspective. He artfully weaves his personal experiences, reflecting on the relationships he built during his time at Yahoo! and Shazam. It's a riveting peak into the thrilling world of travel and the opportunities it can present.Ever thought about the role diversity and inclusion play in shaping future generations? Our guest emphasizes the importance of conscious inclusion and the celebration of our similarities as humans. He takes us on a thoughtful exploration of the diminishing civil discourse in our society, and the potential dangers of polarization. This conversation offers fascinating insights into the necessity for leaders to compromise and listen effectively. Curious about the impact of a multic

How can a single experience mold your identity and shape your destiny? Our conversation with Cesar Wurm, the charismatic and empathetic VP of Commercial and Premium Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, has us grappling with these profound questions. He takes us down the memory lane, revealing a mesmerizing journey from heart-wrenching loss to finding his passion in hospitality, through a path filled with valuable connections and growth opportunities. Cesar's story is a testament to the power of human connection, underlining how every interaction holds the potential to influence and inspire.But the journey to success is never a bed of roses. It's more like a rollercoaster ride with its highs and lows, and Cesar is no stranger to it. He bravely opens up about the struggles he faced, including his battle with addiction and mental health issues. Caesar's thoughtful reflections on the importance of vulnerability in leadership and the pressing need to normalize seeking help are like a breath of fresh

Ever pondered on the stark reality of a CEO's life or the power of personal branding? Well, you're in for a treat! We're thrilled to welcome Freddie Paxton, the dynamic CEO of the UK's leading personal branding agency, WOAW. Freddie takes us on an inspiring journey, sharing his transition from a university dropout to a C-suite executive. He peels back the layers of the CEO role, revealing its challenges and responsibilities - which can often be a far cry from the perceived glamour.Freddie's insightful narrative extends to the realm of personal branding in our digital age. He emphasizes that we all have a personal brand, often unconsciously, and harnessing it can yield significant benefits. With Freddie's expert guidance, we delve into the importance of carefully crafting our messages and the role of a robust personal brand in streamlining networking. His unique perspective on this emerging branch of marketing is a treasure trove of knowledge.We are not just about business; we del

What if, in a heavily male-dominated industry, your gender wasn’t a barrier but a superpower, an asset? Join us for a captivating conversation with Liz Benison, CEO of ISS UK and Ireland, as she shares her journey from an uncertain 18-year-old to leading a major organization, and how she turned her gender into a superpower in the automotive industry. This episode promises interesting discussions on gender equity, parenthood, care responsibilities, and the different life stages of a CEO.Balancing work and family life is a delicate act. Liz shares fascinating stories, including one where her daughter demonstrated an incredible business acumen, and how bringing children to work and celebrating life milestones can shape a career.We take you through Leila's trip to Hong Kong, where she retraced her father's steps showing that work, life, and business are not separate entities but a harmonious blend. In the last part of our discussion, we tackle CEO activism, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and

Our fourth CEO Activist episode features a conversation between Leila McKenzie-Delis, CEO and Founder of DIAL Global and Ben Page, CEO at Ipsos."People want leadership. That means they want clarity, they want fairness, they want transparency, They want to believe that someone has a plan, even if the world is in turmoil or in chaos."You'll hear about- Ben's 36 year stint with Ipsos, starting as a graduate trainee to his rise as CEO- Ipsos' evolution over the years growing to become a global juggernaut of data and research and the work they do now not just in data but also with communities and their core values which drive them to do what they do- How cultural outlook on life affects what people see as acceptable or not when it comes to DIBE issues- How Ben adapts his leadership style depending on the situation, culture and norms- What diversity brings to the table, and how that has become more important within global orgnaisations- The role of the CEO within the organisation and how th

In this week’s podcast, Leila McKenzie-Delis, CEO and Founder of DIAL Global speaks to Roisin Mackenzie, Chief People officer at Saga PLC"But ultimately it's it's all about back to listen to your colleagues - How are they feeling? What are they telling you? Because they will tell you if a culture is off, they will tell you if they don't feel like you've got an inclusive culture. So you have to focus on culture as much as you do your processes, diversity and who who you bringing in. If you haven't worked hard enough on making sure that culture is safe, inclusive, that people feel like they can get on, they can feel seen, they can feel themselves, leaders understand what it is, you're pushing water up a hill."You'll hear about:- Roisin's career journey and how she progressed to become Chief People Officer at Saga PLC- How the evolution of the role of the people function, ESG and diversity, inclusion and belonging has played out over the last decade- Saga's

Our third CEO Activist episode features a conversation between Leila McKenzie-Delis, CEO and Founder of DIAL Global and Paul Gerrard, Campaigns, Public Affairs & Board Secretariat Director at the Co-op Group, Board Director at Co-ops UK and Trustee of the Co-operative Heritage Trust.Paul played a role in shaping what the CEO Activist campaign looks like today especially when it comes to the convening power of the initiative when it comes to business and policymakers."A partnership between government, local or central, and business is critical. If you want to help communities prosper then businesses have a critical role to play alongside governments."You'll hear about- Paul's strong family background and tightly-knit community which played a large role in shaping his worldview- Why Paul believes that the intersection between business and the government has such an important and crucial role to play in today's modern world- The history of the Coop and what makes its sense of communi