Odgers Berndtson launches diversity and inclusion consultancy

Odgers Berndtson has founded a new inclusion and diversity advisory brand to complement its recruitment and executive search services. Sue Johnson, a Managing Partner with the firm said the consultancy aims to make diverse business models “a reality for all our clients.”

She added, “Recruitment is the fastest way an organisation can become more diverse. But that’s only half the battle. Creating genuinely inclusive workplaces, where people feel respected, valued, and where they can be their true selves is how organisations keep their diverse talent.”

Johnson will be the new head of Odgers Berndtson I&D Consultancy, which will work to provide evidence-based frameworks and methodologies, delivered by qualified I&D practitioners. It will offer a full suite of I&D services, comprising advisory services, workplace analytics, and I&D training.

Among these advisory services, Odgers Berndtson’s clients will be given access to bespoke support depending on their specific requirements. This includes strategy workshops, executive coaching, governance models and KPIs, and accountability frameworks. The workplace analytics will involve mapping the flow of talent, identifying recruitment and performance management biases, defining an organisation’s bespoke business case for I&D, and assessing an organisation’s I&D ‘maturity’.

As well as the social case for I&D, the new consultancy will also help clients realise the business potential of diversity. For example, companies with above average management level diversity gain a 19% premium on innovation related revenues alone.

Richard Love, Managing Partner of Berwick Partners, the senior management search arm of Odgers Berndtson, added, “Organisations who fully embrace the I&D agenda are demonstrably more successful and have more engaged workforces. Many companies and leaders are struggling to navigate a challenging and constantly evolving topic, and this is where we see an opportunity to provide insight and support. We are delighted to have such an experienced and capable individual in Sue Johnson leading an important new initiative for us.”

Working in 50 sectors across 35 countries, the last 50 years have seen Odgers Berndtson help some of the world’s biggest and best organisations find the senior talent to drive their agendas. The I&D Consultancy is yet another addition to Odgers Berndtson’s I&D portfolio. It coincides with Odgers Berndtson’s Unlimited festival, for instance. The two-week event provides I&D training, upskilling, and education workshops for the company’s 1,500 global employees.