We exist to help our clients seize transformational opportunities or to navigate their most difficult challenges, and so we need to draw on the brightest minds from the broadest range of backgrounds to bring their perspectives.
To do that, it’s essential that it is in our DNA to support and celebrate our people as individuals. And that we all have the ability, resources and guidance to achieve our long-term career ambitions.
That’s why our approach to Inclusion is embedded throughout Interpath:
- Our ExCom takes ownership for our Inclusion strategy with two ExCom members, Caroline Chamberlain, Head of People, and Mark Raddan, Group CEO, acting as sponsors, supported by senior Managing Directors (MDs) across the business;
- Our Global Inclusion Board provides a forum for open discussion and external perspectives on what we’re getting right and to highlight areas where we can do more. As well as key representatives from across our firm, the Global Inclusion Board draws on external voices (including Tamara Box, NED on Interpath’s main Board) to ensure we bring the broadest range of perspectives and learn from wider best practice;
- Our People Team, led by Caroline Chamberlain, is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring the impact of a suite of programmes and policies which are designed to support and grow a diverse workforce. The team draws on their own industry-leading experience and credentials to continually monitor our policies, ensuring these are best in class, working alongside our client-facing and business enablement teams to ensure that they meet the needs of our people;
- Our most senior leaders (including all MDs) are expected to include in their goals at least one goal to improve Inclusivity across our firm;
- Most importantly, we draw extensively on the perspectives of our greatest asset, our own people. We do this in a range of ways but primarily through our internal Inclusion Committee and our seven Employee Network Groups who together provide the driving force for positive challenge and change in our business. Our Employee Networks help us to create a diverse and inclusive culture and help to create a safe space for education and understanding of diverse perspectives. They include our Women’s Network, Muslim Network, Jewish Network, Afro Caribbean Network, LGBTQ+ Network, Young Professionals Network and Sports Committee and all host a range of events throughout the year which are open to all.
In embedding Inclusion throughout our business, we have designed and introduced a range of programmes and activities which are monitored and reviewed regularly, with our focus and approach adapting to identified needs. These fall into three categories, and current examples include:
Events designed and intended to generally raise awareness amongst our people:
- At Interpath we know everyone is equal, but not the same. Our annual firmwide Diversity Awareness events highlight and re-emphasise the importance of viewing and supporting colleagues as individuals. Topics from previous events have included: destigmatising disabilities, mental health in the workplace, LGBTQ+ inclusive cultures, discovering Islam and the challenge of microagressions
Programmes designed and intended to equip our leaders with advanced skills:
- Our Inclusive Leadership programme supports our leaders to accelerate their professional development, develop a deeper level of self-understanding and uncover the value and unique contribution they bring to the teams they lead. The ‘how’ as well as the ‘what’ one does as a leader is central to this programme.
- We offer individual 1:1 coaching with an expert coach to any and all leaders and colleagues about to go on, or return from a period of leave such as maternity, paternity or parental leave.
Programmes designed and intended to underpin a culture of sponsorship and allyship at our firm:
- Our Allyship programme pairs junior colleagues with Directors/MDs who provide support and mentorship towards agreed goals and personal development
- Our Reverse Mentoring programme provides a forum for junior colleagues to educate MDs and Directors on a range of Inclusion topics and other areas.
