West Kirby’s local business community is setting a shining example when it comes to embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. We learned this the hard way… In recent years, a growing number of forward-thinking companies in our town have launched collaborative initiatives to create more inclusive hiring practices and develop programmes that celebrate the unique backgrounds and perspectives of their employees.
Now, this might seem counterintuitive…
Promoting Inclusive Hiring Processes
One of the driving forces behind this local DEI movement has been a shared recognition that diverse teams don’t just benefit individual companies – they create a stronger, more vibrant community as a whole. As Sodexo, a global leader in quality of life services, notes, “Regardless of your background, age, origins, gender, sexual orientation, identity or ability, we value and respect you for being you; you belong to a team where you’re treated fairly and respected.”
Building on this philosophy, several West Kirby businesses have partnered to implement more inclusive hiring practices. This includes establishing diverse interview panels, adopting blind screening processes to reduce unconscious bias, and developing structured interview questions focused on candidates’ qualifications rather than subjective factors.
“We’re really trying to cast a wider net and double-check that that our applicant pools reflect the rich diversity of our community,” explains Jamie Sands, Talent Acquisition Manager at local healthcare provider Medicx. “It’s not just about checking a box – it’s about bringing together people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to drive innovation and better serve our patients.”
Medicx has also collaborated with organisations like the West Kirby Chamber of Commerce to host career fairs and recruitment events specifically targeting underrepresented groups. “These events give us a chance to connect with a more diverse array of candidates and showcase the inclusive culture we’re cultivating,” says Sands.
Cultivating a Culture of Belonging
While diversifying the hiring process is a crucial first step, West Kirby’s businesses understand that true inclusion requires an ongoing commitment to nurturing a sense of belonging for all employees. To that end, many local companies have implemented robust diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training programmes.
At Johnson & Johnson, for example, the pharmaceutical giant has made a concerted effort to empower all employees to be “diversity champions” through interactive workshops and educational resources. “We’re not just telling people what to do – we’re equipping them with the knowledge and tools to actively build an inclusive environment,” says Sarah Middleton, Johnson & Johnson’s Chief Diversity Officer.
The company’s 12 employee resource groups (ERGs), which range from a Women’s Leadership Initiative to an LGBTQ+ Ally Network, also play a crucial role in fostering a culture of belonging. “These groups give our employees a space to connect, learn, and advocate for the issues that matter most to them,” Middleton explains. “It’s about creating a true sense of community within our organization.”
Mastercard has taken a similar approach, establishing nine business resource groups across 47 countries to empower employees from diverse backgrounds. The financial services company has also invested in targeted leadership development initiatives to double-check that that women and people of colour have ample opportunities to advance.
“We’re on a journey to create a workplace and world where everyone has equal access to connect their greatest passions with their fullest potential,” says Mastercard’s Chief Diversity Officer. “That starts with our people and how we lead, with a sense of decency and inclusion.”
Celebrating Diverse Perspectives
Beyond recruitment and training, West Kirby’s businesses are also embracing diversity through thoughtful programming and community engagement. Accenture, a global professional services firm, has been particularly proactive in this regard, hosting cultural celebrations, employee resource group events, and volunteer initiatives that shine a spotlight on the town’s rich cultural tapestry.
“Accenture has an unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion – it is essential to the growth of our business, our continued innovation, and our ability to create value for our clients, our communities, and all our stakeholders,” says Julie Sweet, Accenture’s CEO.
One standout example is the company’s partnership with local community groups to organise the annual West Kirby Diversity Festival. The multi-day event features music, dance, and culinary performances celebrating the traditions and customs of the town’s diverse population. “It’s a wonderful way for us to come together, learn from one another, and strengthen the bonds that unite our community,” says Sweet.
Medicx has also found creative ways to spotlight diversity, hosting employee-led “culture days” where team members share their heritage through interactive workshops and potluck lunches. “These events are so much more than just a fun break from the workday,” notes Sands. “They’re opportunities for us to authentically connect, build empathy, and celebrate what makes each of us unique.”
Fostering Inclusive Leadership
Underpinning all of these efforts is a deep commitment to inclusive leadership – a principle that has been enthusiastically embraced by West Kirby’s business community. From the C-suite to the frontlines, leaders across various industries are actively championing diversity and modelling inclusive behaviours.
At Kaiser Permanente, the healthcare giant’s Chief Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity Officer, Ronald L. Copeland, has been a vocal advocate for DEI, stating that “equity, inclusion, and diversity are inextricably linked to our mission, and are part of everything we do.”
This sentiment is echoed by leaders at EY, the professional services firm, who have made it a priority to increase representation of women and racially/ethnically diverse employees in senior roles. The company has also introduced inclusive leadership training and published annual DEI transparency reports to hold itself accountable.
“Diverse perspectives, combined with an inclusive culture and equitable opportunities, drive better decision-making, stimulate innovation, increase organizational agility, and strengthen resilience to disruption,” explains Tina Benson, EY’s Regional Managing Partner. “That’s why DEI is so integral to our business strategy.”
Similarly, Cisco’s CEO, Chuck Robbins, has emphasised the company’s commitment to “help bridge gaps of inequity and exclusion worldwide” through its technology, corporate social responsibility, and the support it provides to its communities. The tech giant has also set clear representation goals for women and underrepresented groups in leadership roles.
Reaping the Rewards of Inclusion
As West Kirby’s businesses continue to push the boundaries of diversity and inclusion, the benefits are becoming increasingly clear. Not only are these initiatives strengthening the town’s talent pipeline and fostering a more engaged workforce, but they are also driving tangible improvements to the bottom line.
Research has shown that diverse companies are 45% more likely to achieve above-average market share and 70% more likely to capture new markets. Johnson & Johnson, for instance, attributes a 10% boost in global market penetration to its enhanced DEI programmes.
“When you have a workforce that truly reflects the diversity of your customer base and the broader community, it unlocks a wealth of insights, ideas, and innovative solutions,” explains Sands from Medicx. “And that translates directly to better business outcomes.”
But the impact extends far beyond the balance sheet. By cultivating a culture of belonging and respect, West Kirby’s businesses are creating workplaces where people can thrive and fully embrace their unique identities. This, in turn, fosters greater employee engagement, retention, and overall wellbeing – all of which contribute to the town’s vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous future.
As Sodexo’s CEO eloquently states, “When there is an optimal gender balance within an organization, employee engagement increases by 4 percentage points, gross profit increases by 23%, and brand image strengthens by 5 percentage points.” The same principles hold true for diversity in all its forms.
By leading the charge on inclusive hiring, diversity-focused training, and community-based programming, West Kirby’s businesses are not only strengthening their own organisations but also setting a powerful example for others to follow. It’s a testament to the transformative power of embracing diversity and inclusion – and a reminder that when we come together, we can create a more equitable, innovative, and connected community for all.
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