34: Alexandra Evreinoff, MD Involve: On DEI, role models and being an ally

Shownotes: My guest on this episode of The Elephant in the Room podcast is Alexandra Evreinoff, Managing Director at Involve a global network and consultancy championing diversity and inclusion in business since 2013. We spoke about role models and why it is important to see people like ourselves succeeding in the workplace. Involve publishes several annual role model lists recognising and celebrating business leaders and future leaders who are breaking down barriers at work and inspiring the next generation of diverse talent 1) HERoes Women Role Model Lists showcasing leaders who are championing women in business and driving change for gender diversity in the workplace; 2) the Global OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Model Lists showcasing LGBT+ business leaders and allies and the 3) EMpower Ethnic Minority Role Model lists showcasing business leaders who are working hard to smash the ceiling for ethnic minorities in the UK, Ireland, Europe, and people of colour in the United States and Canada. A quick glance at the lists shows that there is no shortage of talent in across industries (no surprise there) We also talked about the importance of benchmarking, monitoring and evaluation of DEI initiatives, The dangers of self-certification as an ally Keeping the agenda at the top table; Those who are doing it well.... How organisations can kickstart their own journey 'If Not Now, When? campaign that has been signed by over 80 business leaders pledging change including BP, Tesco, StarlingBank, TimeOutGroup, Talk Talk, Greene King, Kier Group and Discovery UK.