Diageo executives applauded for their ongoing LGBTQIA+ support

Two Diageo executives are cited on the prestigious Outstanding LGBT+ Role Model Lists 2022 which shine a light on leaders and allies for their impact towards LGBTQIA+ diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Named on the Top 50 Ally Executives list is Diageo Chief HR Officer Louise Prashad, and Diageo Chief Marketing Officer Cristina Diezhandino. This is the eighth consecutive year individuals from Diageo have been cited.

Prepared yearly by diversity and inclusion group INvolve, the lists showcase the Top 50 Ally Executives, 100 LGBT+ Executives, and 100 LGBT+ Future Leaders.

As Chief HR Officer, Louise was noted for her commitment to creating an inclusive culture, championing the LGBTQIA+ community, and ensuring Diageo is a great place to work for LGBTQIA+ talent. Cristina was featured for her commitment to progressive marketing across Diageo's 200+ brands, and her role as Global Executive Sponsor of the Diageo Rainbow Network.

Diversity and inclusion is at the heart of Diageo

“Diversity and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do at Diageo, and I’m thrilled to be recognised alongside Cristina. I extend my sincere thanks to the members of our employee Rainbow Networks globally, who passionately lead and support us in driving change at Diageo and in our communities. There’s no doubt the impact that a diverse organisation has on performance and attracting the most talented employees, and all businesses must continue to champion, respect and listen to the LGBTQIA+ community and drive bold change," said Louise.

“I’m honoured to be included in the Outstanding LGBT+ Role Model Lists 2022, alongside other inspirational LGBTQ+ peers. Through campaigns like Baileys Witches, we’re committed to creating an advertising environment where, from script to screen, everyone sees themselves represented. Our Rainbow Network were integral to the creation and execution of this campaign and I’m proud to be an ally and drive the work of our brands to make sure everyone feels recognised and celebrated,” said Cristina.

Successful businesses are those that embrace a diverse workforce

"At Diageo, we understand that the most successful businesses are those that embrace a diverse workforce with a range of backgrounds, skills and capabilities. Our Society 2030: Spirit of Progress ten-year sustainability plan includes a number of stretching inclusion and diversity goals," said Diageo.

Led by the Rainbow Network, Diageo’s Pride 2022 was bigger than ever, with the Progress Pride flag raised at 85 sites globally. The company also celebrated 2022’s INC Week, which included sessions for employees on LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in the Workplace and Sexile: LGBTQIA+ Outside of the Big City.

Diageo's Gender Expression and Identity Guidelines, launched in 2020, outline a framework for how Diageo will ensure fair treatment and support for its employees with diverse gender identities and gender expressions. In Diageo's recent global employee survey, 86% of employees agreed that in Diageo, people from different backgrounds and opinions can thrive and be themselves.