The Institute of Directors (IoD) has launched a new Commission entitled: ‘The future of inclusive business: harnessing diverse talent for success’.
The Commission will examine the key barriers to the recruitment, retention, and progression of individuals from underrepresented groups, specifically disability, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation, in the workplace. It will identify and promote how best to overcome these barriers and create working environments where all talent can thrive and contribute to the bottom line and growth.
The Commission will be led by Lord Shinkwin, who has made equality of opportunity his key focus since entering the House of Lords in 2015. He also has lived experience of severe disability and is guided by a panel of eleven senior business leaders and experts.
Diversity gives a competitive edge
Lord Shinkwin truly believes in the beneficial impact of diversity. He said: “I’m delighted to have been asked to chair this important and timely initiative, and I am excited that the IoD is taking such a strong lead in this area. It is too easy for politicians like me to dismiss diversity and inclusion as woke when actually every successful business knows that diversity is not just a good thing. It gives them that competitive edge.”
Jonathan Geldart, Director General of the Institute of Directors, continued in the same vein about it’s a real asset for the business. “With labour and skills shortages holding back businesses across sectors and in every part of the UK, harnessing the full potential of the UK’s diverse workforce has never been more important. We also know that diverse organisations are more effective and creative and, as a result, more likely to be successful.”
How does it work? The Commission’s White Paper will include specific, user-friendly and practical guidance on how to inspire and drive mutually beneficial change across business leadership. As well as make insightful policy recommendations for Government and other bodies to bring about the most favourable conditions for businesses and directors to flourish.
To help them in this journey, The Commission is calling for employers to make their voices heard and help inform its deliberations and White Paper.
Responses can either be submitted through the consultation document or an online form. The deadline for responses to this consultation is 30th April 2022, with the White Paper due to be published in the autumn.
For further information, visit this website.
