60 second interview — Loraine Martins OBE, Global Director for Diversity and Inclusion at The Nichols Group.
1. Why is having an inclusive and diverse working environment so important?
Creating a workplace where all people are respected, can be themselves and feel valued means that businesses can tap into creativity and innovation. It provides fresh ways of looking at problems and identifying solutions. Where people feel safe, they are more productive.
2. What has your career journey highlighted for you in terms of the value of embracing diversity?
In my experience, having the opportunity to work with people from different backgrounds, with different expertise, skills and ways of thinking has expanded my learning, thinking and appreciation of others. It has improved how I work and has made me a better person.
3. What was the spur for your organisation to become more proactive on I&D?
Our mission at Nichols is to ensure that the world’s diversity is reflected in businesses and integrated into everything that we do, and this is core to our vision of creativity to inspire and change the world.
4. When it comes to improving diversity at a senior level, what does your organisation do to support people from under-represented groups in their journey to the top?
We are a non-hierarchal business and believe that everyone can have opportunities to flourish. We have made significant appointments over the last five years, which has seen an increase in people from diverse backgrounds.
5. What are the most innovative steps your organisation has taken on I&D?
We’ve created a ‘Loving Variety’ programme which provides our clients with a series of products and guidance, from supporting cultural transformation to leadership development and executive coaching on inclusive leadership. And we have recently adopted a racial equity strategy to improve our confidence in addressing micro-aggressions and discrimination in the workplace or with our clients.
6. What is a key piece of advice for organisations just starting their inclusion and diversity journeys?
Gather the data, gather the anecdotes, and use the evidence to inform/guide your approach. Be brave and bold and try different things. And leaders lead with integrity, authenticity and vulnerability and be prepared to be challenged. Things will not always go to plan, but being open and transparent about your learning helps to create a trusting and inclusive environment.