DE & I
To achieve this within the business , Wunderman Thompson has set a number of workplace goals to foster inclusive spaces for community , innovation , growth and learning . For example :
• Improved ways of working by dropping silos to create spaces to collaborate across functions and geography . As a global organisation , Wunderman Thompson permits staff to work with a hybrid working model , allowing opportunities to collaborate on client projects and celebrate cultural moments .
• Employee resource groups . Wunderman Thompson ’ s vibrant and expanding Business + Employee Resource Groups span more than 20 countries across the world , which boast volunteer-led groups that gather to curate special engagements to learn more about one ’ s culture , build community amongst themselves to discuss challenges and experiences , and bring forth policy changes for the agency ’ s leaders ’ consideration .
• Learning pathways . The business believes in designing one ’ s own authentic brand and pathway forward . Wunderman Thompson ’ s learning opportunities are accessible and vary based on need and style of learning . From online videos to interactive gamified plans , to instructor-led sessions . There ’ s something for everyone , creating an inclusive environment .
Acknowledging privilege in business Representation , sponsorship , and mentorship are three critical components in growing leaders . For those from majority demographic groups , it ’ s understanding and acknowledging the privilege they hold
“ALL LEADERS – AND BY
EXTENSION , ALL PEOPLE – WANT TO BE RESPECTED FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS AND NOT FOR THEIR SEXUAL ORIENTATION ”
EZINNE OKORO INCLUSION , DIVERSITY , & EQUITY CORPORATE STRATEGIST , WUNDERMAN THOMPSON
in the rooms they occupy . Okoro says they should ask themselves how they are using their success to provide sponsorship or mentorship opportunities for the next generation of leaders and make space to do so .
For those in minority groups , these components greatly benefit them as future leaders . Setting them up for success with mentorship ; having someone validate your contribution through sponsorship while opening new doors ; and seeing someone who looks like you in similar if not senior roles . It shows the potential and hope that you can achieve those opportunities as well . “ Simply put , representation matters ,” Okoro says . “ It ’ s important for everyone to see diversity of all forms in leadership roles . Specifically to this topic , it ’ s vital for those in the LGBTQIA + community to show others
94 November 2023