Global investment firm Blackstone has appointed Devin Glenn as its Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) which follows a series of wider diversity and inclusion efforts made by the organisation.

Blackstone appoints Devin Glenn

In her new role based in New York, US Glenn will be responsible for continuing to implement initiatives that will help Blackstone achieve a more diverse and inclusive workplace internally and among its portfolio companies.

She joins Blackstone from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP where she was the Assistant Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. There, she advanced and increased awareness of the firm’s global diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy, executed recruiting, retention, and client development initiatives, and launched an industry-leading diversity pipeline programme for high-potential first-year law students.

Prior to that, she spent time in various roles related to diversity and inclusion at the law firm, as well as working as an associate in its banking and institutional investing division.

Her educational accolades include a BA from the University of Virginia and a JD from Columbia Law School. She is a member of the New York State Bar and the Association of Law Firm Diversity Professionals.

Her appointment comes as Blackstone seeks to diversify its talent pipeline, which includes recruiting from more Historically Black Colleges and universities. Across its portfolio, Blackstone launched a firmwide mandate in 2020 targeting at least one-third diverse representation on portfolio company boards for new control investments starting in the US and Europe. Blackstone also launched Career Pathways, a pilot programme run by Marcus Felder, Vice President in Portfolio Operations, to create employment opportunities and career mobility at Blackstone’s portfolio companies for people from underrepresented communities.

There’s also LaunchPad, the Blackstone Charitable Foundation’s student entrepreneurship and career readiness programme, which announced a $40 million commitment to expand from 30 to 75 campuses over the next five years, focusing on colleges and universities with a majority diverse population or serving under-resourced communities.

Paige Ross, Global Head of Human Resources, said: “We’ve long been committed to increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion at the firm. In recent years, we’ve expanded our recruiting pipeline, introduced new programmes to increase engagement and retention of employees, and set goals for more diverse boards. I’m thrilled to welcome Devin to the firm as we continue to push ourselves to be a leader in this area.”

Glenn added: “I look forward to helping Blackstone continue to integrate DEI principles into the workplace culture and the various talent and business functions, and also ensure that we leverage its expansive platform to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industries and communities it serves. The firmwide commitment has impressed me and I’m excited about what we can accomplish in the coming months and years.”