Partial inclusion and diversity (I&D) measures might bring diverse talent into an organisation, but it won’t make them stay. Headhunter Odgers Berndtson is on a mission to change this by helping other firms embed I&D effectively into their DNA as demand for related strategy and workforce training rises.
Via its new I&D consultancy, clients of Odgers Berndtson will learn how to embed long-term I&D measures, which go beyond diverse recruitment, into their DNA and culture, enabling better talent retention.
Examples include how to build a diverse pipeline of talent, create inclusive onboarding processes, and ensure inclusion and diversity go right through to product and marketing strategies.
The consultancy will also offer “a full suite of I&D services, comprising advisory services, workplace analytics, and I&D training” delivered by qualified practitioners.
Clients can also expect bespoke support based on their requirements, including strategy workshops, executive coaching, governance models and KPIs, and accountability frameworks.
They will also get help with “mapping the flow of talent, identifying recruitment and performance management biases, defining an organisation’s bespoke business case for I&D, and assessing an organisation’s I&D’ maturity’.”
The consultancy’s launch coincides with Odgers Berndtson’s Unlimited festival, a two-week celebration that will provide I&D training, upskilling, and education workshops for their 1,500 employees globally, which proves their commitment to I&D internally as well as to their clients.
Sue Johnson, Managing Partner and newly appointed Head of the Inclusion and Diversity Consultancy, said: “Recruitment is the fastest way an organisation can become more diverse. But that’s only half the battle. Creating genuinely inclusive workplaces where people feel respected, valued, and can be their true selves is how organisations keep their diverse talent. Through the Odgers Berndtson I&D Consultancy, we aim to make this a reality for all our clients”.
Richard Love, Managing Partner of Berwick Partners, the senior management search arm of Odgers Berndtson, said: “Organisations who fully embrace the I&D agenda are demonstrably more successful and have more engaged workforces. Many companies and leaders are struggling to navigate a challenging and constantly evolving topic, and this is where we see an opportunity to provide insight and support. We are delighted to have such an experienced and capable individual in Sue Johnson leading an important new initiative for us”.
