Paloma DeNardis

Retailers can no longer afford to ignore conversations surrounding DE&I. The Black Lives Matter movement, the uprising against racial injustice over the past year in the United States and the current spotlight on violence against the AAPI community have all highlighted systemic racial disparities in the workplace as well. It affects every business and value conscious customers are expecting retailers to have a plan of action to address these disparities within their organizations. How can champions of DE&I initiatives at retail businesses take the opportunity offered by a painfully charged moment to drive real, lasting change in their organizations? Join this panel to hear our panelists discuss: 

• Understanding the internal cultural changes that must take place to become more inclusive
• Ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion related initiatives are at the forefront
• Creating a safe environment where all voices are welcome, heard and respected
• Overcoming barriers to change and getting buy in across the organization
• Holding leadership accountable for prioritizing conversations around workplace culture & DE&I
• Communicating your efforts effectively externally 

Steve Lesnard, Global VP of Marketing, The North Face/VFC

Lydia Smith, Director, Diversity & Inclusion, Kohl’s

Josh Oates, Senior Regional Director, Diversity & Inclusion Lead, Office Depot