Diageo VP Emma Giles is proud to work for Diageo

Diageo believes the most inclusive and diverse culture makes for a better business and a better world. It champions diversity and inclusion (D&I) across its business, with its partners and communities.

Diageo North America's Emma Giles is Vice President of Commercial Planning and Activation. She is based in New York, USA and is empowered to advocate for gender equality.

“I come from a long line of very strong women. My mother, having left her job to both raise her family and manage our family-run business with my father, was always a powerful advocate for her daughter. She would always tell me, 'There is nothing you can’t do'. She instilled confidence in me which combined with the wanderlust I had from a young age led me to pursue an international career," comments Emma.

Emma is breaking the bias

"The beverage alc industry has been historically male dominated. Navigating that sometimes can be difficult, especially when you find yourself as the only woman in the room. What’s important, is that we create cultures where people do not feel marginalized in work and feel safe to be themselves. It’s been a passion of mine to #BreakTheBias, which requires challenge, collaboration and allyship. I am so proud to work for Diageo, a company that prioritizes gender equality and has D&I at its core. When I joined, I broke the bias being the first female brand director on Guinness and was given the space to bring my experience and leadership to an iconic brand. That space was provided by a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and leadership who valued diversity, that continues today. It is the reason I feel empowered to bring my authentic self to the workplace," she explains.

Diageo champions gender equality

"Back in 2019, I volunteered as a Board Member here at Diageo, for the Spirited Women’s Network. I wanted to use my voice to be a driver for change around gender equality. As the female BRG at Diageo, SWN’s mission is to engage, retain and grow talented women leaders. We provide tools, education resources and a network that facilitates enhanced advocacy at all levels of management. I am so proud to be part of this community, one that provides support, advocacy and allows me to witness the growth and development of so many talented female leaders, colleagues, and friends. Not only has Diageo given me the opportunity to grow my career, but also has allowed me to bring my passion for gender parity to the workplace," says Emma.