My D&I Journey with:
Joy Drury,
Global DEI Manager,
Lloyd’s Register
My D&I Journey with:1. What was your journey into diversity and inclusion?
My journey into Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) is a little unusual and was shaped by a strong personal drive to challenge systemic inequalities and create spaces where underrepresented voices are heard and valued. I transitioned into D&I after recognising gaps in representation and inclusion in my previous roles, as learning and engagement manager in the arts and heritage sector. This passion was further fuelled by my experiences as a parent navigating the education system, and my determination to raise aspirations and broaden horizons for young people – especially those who don’t see themselves reflected in positions of power. My move into a DEI Consultant role, and later into strategic leadership at Lloyd’s Register, was a purposeful evolution from personal advocacy to corporate impact, where I’ve built initiatives like the Black Experience Programme and culturally inclusive programming aligned to global industry goals.
2. How would you describe a typical day in your role?
As a parent, my mornings begin with getting my boys ready for school – a daily reminder of why I do this work: to help build a world where they, and others like them, can thrive. Once they’re off, my mornings are often spent, leading virtual meetings with global colleagues across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. These sessions cover everything from our Black Experience Programme to corporate DEI events and empowering employee-led action through the development of our LR Citizens programme. Midday is reserved for focused work such as: shaping our inclusive recruitment action plan, reviewing DEI dashboards, or developing learning content that centres every day inclusion and leadership. I also stay closely connected with ERGs to help amplify their impact. Afternoons vary – some days I’m hosting a schools programme working group, other times advising senior leaders or collaborating with external partners on initiatives like our cultural intelligence programme. Every activity feeds into building a high-performance, inclusive culture. Evenings are for family. When working from home, I usually prep dinner during my lunch break to keep things calm later on – especially while supporting my son through SATs. I recently joined our local PTA and was elected Parent Governor. I haven’t yet found time to journal, but it’s on the list!
3. What is the best part of your job?
Creating space for meaningful, lasting change – where people who’ve historically been excluded feel seen, valued, and empowered to lead. Whether it’s helping my colleagues across continents embed inclusion into their every day interactions, or guiding Lloyd’s Register through honest conversations about its history and future, what drives me most is seeing people and systems transform – especially when those changes create new possibilities that will benefit children and future generation and communities where I come from.
4. What advice would you give to someone looking to move into D&I?
If you want to move into a DEI role, start by deepening your understanding – read, attend webinars, and stay informed. Look at the skills you already have; experience in HR, education, or community work can translate well. Get involved in DEI initiatives at work or in your community to build practical experience. Network with DEI professionals to learn from their journeys and stay connected to the wider conversation. Most importantly, know your “why” – your personal motivation will guide you and keep your work authentic. That’s what helped me build a meaningful, impactful career in DEI.
5. What are the main challenges faced by D&I professionals at the moment?
As a DEI professional, I face several challenges. Political and legal pushback threatens DEI programmes, while economic pressures sometimes lead to scaled-back initiatives. Many organisations publicly endorse DEI, but there’s often a gap between commitment and actual action. Also, cultural resistance to DEI efforts remains a significant barrier, with some viewing it as a threat to traditional norms. Despite these obstacles, I stay focused on driving meaningful change, building alliances, and ensuring DEI initiatives are both impactful and sustainable.
6. Name three skills that support you to succeed in D&I
Strategic vision – I connect DEI to business outcomes, ensuring our efforts drive measurable change and align with long-term goals. This is what gets you buy in.
Empathy and lived experience – I bring authenticity to the work, informed by both my personal journey and a deep understanding of intersectionality.
Programme and stakeholder management – From global data campaigns to School STEM programmes to diversify Maritime industry, I know how to turn ideas into action and bring people with me.
View more My D&I Journey profiles!
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Foundations to Leading & Accelerating Inclusion at Work
Online Training Workshops
600+ workplace inclusion and HR related professionals have now attended our ‘Foundations to Leading & Accelerating Inclusion at Work’ CPD Accredited online training series.
- Level 1 is for professionals looking to move into a workplace inclusion related role, or those who have been leading or have a remit for inclusion in their business for role for less than 12 months.
- Level 2 is for professionals who have been leading or have a remit for inclusion in their business for 1 to 3 years, and are looking to advance their knowledge and skills.
- Level 3 is for professionals who have been leading or have a remit for inclusion in their business for 3+ years, and are looking to enhance their capabilities, take action and embed a whole organisation approach to inclusion and accessibility.
Each CPD Accredited level offers a unique opportunity to learn the foundations to leading and accelerating inclusion at work from three experienced practitioners:
Gamiel Yafai; Fiona Daniel and Toby Mildon.
Tickets at each online workshop cost £499+VAT per person (£399+VAT for non-profit orgs). Spaces limited to 24 attendees to enable the day to be as interactive as possible. Workshops take place live on Zoom.