Episode 18: Joelle Emerson on driving meaningful change in organisations

Inclusion Unlocked: The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Podcast

Efforts to level the playing field for diverse talent are in the spotlight. Will employers stand by their DEI commitments, or in an increasingly politicised landscape will diversity targets, diverse shortlists and DEI talent programmes be deemed high risk? Sasha is joined in conversation with Joelle Emerson to find out more.

Joelle is the co-founder and CEO of Paradigm, a US-based consultancy working with some of the world's most innovative companies to develop diversity & inclusion strategies. Named by Recode as one of the 100 most influential people in business, and appearing on Marie Claire's "New Guard" list of 50 women changing the world, Joelle is a deeply respected leader on workplace diversity and culture.

Having started her career as a civil rights lawyer, Joelle has seen first hand the consequences when companies fail to adequately consider Diversity. And at a point where hostility continues to grow in the US, the UK and beyond, Joelle unpacks the impacts of the Supreme Court Affirmative Action ruling and shares invaluable perspectives on how organisations and individuals maintain a strong focus on diversity.

We explore the potential to influence societal change through organisational change, and the importance of building collaborative, cross-generational cultures. And, with the Worker Protection Act soon to come into force on this side of the pond, we discuss the importance of creating cultures which are intolerant of inappropriate behaviour, and the role of training and awareness raising.

Whether your organisation's approach to diversity, equity and inclusion is global in nature, or you are a local DEI practitioner looking for new perspectives on how to drive change, this episode offers a wealth of practical insights.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.