EDITOR ’ S QUESTION
WALID ISSA , SENIOR MANAGER , PRESALES AND SOLUTIONS ENGINEER – MEA , NETAPP
Diversity , equity and inclusion are essential to fostering innovation , creativity and resilience within organisations . Companies that prioritise DE & I goals often experience greater employee engagement , improved decision-making and stronger connections with their customers and communities . However , these goals are most impactful when they align with a company ’ s core culture and purpose , ensuring authenticity in approach and execution .
By integrating DE & I into the fabric of an organisation , businesses can create meaningful , sustainable change that benefits employees and stakeholders alike .
DEI & B [& belonging ] objectives must be centred around creating a workplace that reflects the diverse communities the business serves . Key goals must include :
• Enhance workforce diversity : Aim to increase representation across all levels of the organisation , focusing on underrepresented groups in technology
• Promote equity : Ensure fair treatment , access and opportunities for all employees , actively working to identify and eliminate barriers within policies and practices
• Foster inclusion and belonging : Cultivate a culture where inclusivity is ingrained in daily interactions and where every employee feels a genuine sense of belonging
Strategies for achieving DEI & B success
Inclusion Officer , is deeply committed to advancing Diversity , Equity , Inclusion & Belonging ( DEI & B ). We have tied executive compensation to DEI & B outcomes , ensuring accountability at the highest levels of the company .
• Employee Business Resource Groups ( EBRGs ): We support various EBRGs , such as Women in Technology ( WIT ), VIBE ( Visionaries Inspiring Black Excellence ), NetAbled , and others , which provide forums for mentoring , networking and professional development .
• Inclusive recruitment and talent development : We have developed recruitment and retention strategies tailored to veterans , women , people of colour and people with disabilities .
• Education and awareness : We provide unconscious bias training for all employees and promote cultural competence through various programmes .
• Community engagement and social impact : Our social impact programmes empower employees to give back to their communities , focusing on empowering the diverse workforce of tomorrow .
Measuring progress and ensuring accountability
NetApp recognises that setting goals is only the first step ; measuring progress and maintaining accountability is crucial for sustained success . NetApp regularly assesses its DEI & B initiatives through annual ESG reports , employee feedback and external recognition .
NetApp strives to realise our diversity goals by implementing several strategic initiatives such as focusing on :
• Leadership commitment and accountability : Our leadership team , exemplified by the appointment of a Chief Diversity and
NetApp ’ s steadfast commitment to DEI & B is reflected in our comprehensive goals and the strategic initiatives we have implemented to achieve them . By fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace , we uphold our core values , drive innovation and better serve our customers and communities . www . intelligentcxo . com
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