C-Suite Perspective: Repositioning Diversity as a Strategic Intent

On 28 April 2025, from 2:00pm to 3:00pm BST, Inclusion in Finance hosted its Global C-suite Webinar, bringing together senior leaders from across the US, UK and Europe to discuss the evolving Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) landscape.
At a time of great uncertainty around DEI and with very different positions being taken by politicians around the world, we were pleased to offer members the opportunity to attend this exclusive webinar, providing a unique chance to hear from senior leaders across the US, UK and Europe.
The panel discussed how organisations across different regions were addressing these challenges and repositioning DEI as a strategic priority to help build high-performing teams, ensure all talent had a fair opportunity to succeed, and remain compliant with local regulations and legislation.
The webinar also provided an update on our Cognitive Diversity research project, led by Professor Alex Edmans at London Business School, which we hope will form part of a refreshed business case for DEI done well.
In this exclusive, invitation-only webinar for Inclusion in Finance Advisory Council and C-suite members, we were delighted to welcome the following speakers:
Cara Williams, Senior Partner, Global Head of ESG, Climate and Sustainability, Mercer
Kasper Elmgreen, Chief Investment Officer, Fixed Income and Equities, Nordea Asset Management
Raymond Sagayam, Managing Partner, Pictet Group and Co-CEO, Pictet Asset Management
Thierry D’Argent, CEO, SG London Branch, Societe Generale
Michelle Thompson-Dolberry, Executive Vice President & Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, MFS
Helena Morrissey, Chair, Inclusion in Finance UK
Together, they shared their insights and experiences on the evolving Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) landscape.
The event was held under the Chatham House Rule, with no comments attributed, to encourage an open and candid discussion.
Key discussion topics included:
The State of DEI Across Regions: A comparison of DEI initiatives across the US, UK and Europe, exploring the different approaches to implementing DEI strategies within varying cultural and regulatory environments.
The Role of Leaders: How the C-suite can lead by example, setting the tone from the top to create lasting change and champion inclusion within their organisations.
Overcoming Challenges: The common obstacles and misconceptions organisations face in fostering truly inclusive environments, creating equitable opportunities for all, and driving competitive advantage.
What’s Next for DEI? The speakers shared their perspectives on the future of DEI and the direction organisations may take in the years ahead.