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Online Agenda (subject to change)
08:40 Online networking
09:05 Chair’s opening remarks
Speaker:
09:10 Understanding the future role of employee networks in helping to shape inclusion strategy
- Networks – reflections on their journey so far and how their role is changing
- Getting senior leadership input on the future of networks and embedding networks into the wider organisation
- Creating safe spaces and resilient networks that can support the business
- Taking a different approach to networks – why agility rather than “one size fits all” matters
Speaker:
09:30 Providing a sound, sustainable structure and maximising the impact of your employee networks
- Governance and alignment to business strategy
- Defining the role and scope of employee networks
- Networks as advocates for change, supporting an inclusive culture
- Ensuring psychological safety for, and well-being of, network leaders and members
Speakers:
09:50 In conversation: Reflections on my journey as a network chair
In this session, Lisa will discuss her journey chairing NatWest’s Gender Network, the bank’s largest employee led network with over 8500 members and 300 volunteers. She will discuss what makes a successful network leader in her view, and how best to lead networks and embed inclusion into the organisation’s DNA, providing practical tips and instructive insights throughout.
Speaker:
10:10 Live audience questions and answers
10:40 Break and online networking
11:05 Resourcing, recognising and rewarding the work of employee networks for their long-term sustainability
- How do you motivate employees to take on the role of network leader in the current geopolitical climate?
- Championing network activities, encouraging resilience and strong advocacy – what does success look like?
- Taking a nuanced approach to rewarding your network leaders ensuring momentum and success
Speakers:
11:25 Wellbeing and mental health of networks during times of geopolitical upheaval
- Supporting mental health for network chairs and members; respecting boundaries and protecting their wellbeing
- Intersectionality; recognising network members of marginalised groups may have specific or differing mental health needs
- Balancing energy and safe spaces, whilst being respectful of diverse voices
- Creating respect and avoiding conflict within a network
Speakers:
11:45 Practical insights into setting up a new network – from setting objectives, getting senior buy-in to long term aspirations
- Building the business case for a new social mobility network and getting buy in from senior leaders
- D&I and network leaders working together to determine the vision and structure
- Setting objectives; what has been achieved in the first year; and long-term aspirations
Speakers:
Trudie Roiz de Sa
EMESA People Director for Diversity, Inclusion, Mental Health & Wellbeing
Boston Consulting Group
Sebastian Ullrich
MD & Partner, Düsseldorf Office; Co-lead, GenAI in People & Organisation
Boston Consulting Group
12:05 Key findings and takeaways from the 2nd annual Radius Global ERG Impact Report
- How employee networks have changed over the past year, building resilience and supporting innovation and the broader organisation
- Survey results, key user cases
- Practical steps to help support the future of ERGs
Speaker:
12:25 Live audience questions and answers
Speakers to be joined by:
Speaker:
12:55 Lunch break and online networking
13:45 Chair’s welcome back
Speaker:
13:50 Networks supporting the D&I strategy and increasing their value to the business
- Why and how does the strategy team at NESO work with employee networks?
- Creating four-year strategy plans for employee networks across the business that are all aligned, with leaders clear on their remit
- Examples of questions to ask in the planning stage and anticipated strategic outcomes
Speakers:
Brit Pickering
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Manager
National Energy System Operator (NESO)
14:10 In conversation: How networks are not only raising awareness, but also collaborating to drive meaningful change for employees and customers
In this conversation the speakers will share how networks can create a psychologically safe space to foster peer support and sharing of lived experiences. It will spotlight how one network at Santander has worked in collaboration to raise the issue of domestic violence and then create a suite of support for both employees and customers.
Speakers:
14:30 Bringing employee networks together following an acquisition and advancing business goals
In this session the speaker will share experiences of bringing ERGs together following an acquisition, including:
- Sharing what inclusion and culture means for the business; recognising how and where it differs
- Practical insights on bringing existing ERGs from the acquired business into the fold
- Ensuring all ERGs are fit for purpose in a changing work environment
Speaker:
14:50 Live audience questions and answers
15:20 Break and online networking
15:45 Accelerating inclusion through employee network collaboration
- How employee networks at Imperial Brands are working together to promote intersectionality and drive inclusion
- The role of the Steering Group in connecting executive leaders, DEI, and networks through a formal committee, and how collaborative discussions and intersectional working groups are helping to shape inclusive outcomes
- The benefits of this joined-up approach and its impact on accelerating inclusion across the organisation
Speakers:
16:05 Revitalising and refreshing your employee networks
- Reaffirming the focus and purpose of your networks
- Embedding strategic change and bridging the gap between senior leadership and colleagues
- Elevating your networks, ensuring they show up authentically and not performatively
Speakers:
16:25 Harnessing the power of LGBTQ+ networks to drive inclusion and brand connection
- How the LGBTQ+ network at Just Eat Takeaway has built a community for employees and raised awareness of the needs and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community
- How a Pride campaign has aligned with the business brand, supporting LGBTQ+ employees and customers
Speakers:
Lee Isaacs
Global Senior Inclusion, Diversity & Belonging Specialist & Global Chair, 'JET & Proud' LGBTQIA+ Network
Just Eat Takeaway.com
16:45 Live audience questions and answers
17:15 Chair's closing remarks
Speaker: