Introducing our DEI leadership sponsors
In October, we elected our DEI leaderships sponsors in an anonymous election campaign. Steve Thompson and Joe Pygall were chosen by global colleagues; here they share why DEI is so important to them.
Joe Pygall
Growing up in a multicultural society and experiencing a global education in Hong Kong, I have been immersed in diverse cultures and perspectives from a young age. I’ve also had the opportunity to travel to many different places and experience different languages, culture and religion. This unique background has instilled in me a profound appreciation for diversity and the importance of inclusivity.
My professional journey has been marked by a dedication to DEI principles and have always strived to build diverse teams. My experience includes working with graduates and apprentices, setting up reverse mentoring, working with global teams, championing women in tech, working with Pride and ex-military groups and implementing policies that promote fairness and inclusivity, such as diverse hiring boards.
I am committed to listening, learning and leading with empathy and my vision is to create an environment where everyone feels equally valued, respected and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.
Steve Thompson
I have no idea what it must be like to not have ADHD or dyslexia or to hear properly. I know people read differently to me, see things differently to me and react differently than me.
I had a significant reduction in hearing about 10 years ago. I have roughly 40% hearing loss at certain pitches. I cannot hear behind me and I lip read all the time. Thankfully, modern hearing aids are so good. My condition is genetic, so I have 2 neurodiverse children and one with roughly 45% hearing.
None of this has held me back. Everything is achievable, nothing is off limits and people are kind when they know. There are so many positives to take from it and I often refer to ADHD as my superpower. I talk to various organizations about neurodiversity in the workplace and why it is nothing to be afraid of.
We all face different challenges and I’m passionate about driving our DEI agenda to celebrate the visible and the invisible in us all.