VMLY&R Names Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Team

VMLY&R has appointed two leaders to spearhead the agency’s expanding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across its global network. Tasha Gilroy and Suba Nadarajah, joint directors of diversity, equity and inclusion, will lead VMLY&R’s global DEI strategy. They will be focused on introducing new programs and partnerships that build on the agency’s inclusive culture and diverse workforce, and drive continued cultural literacy, awareness, and acceptance across the organisation. Both roles will report to Ronnie Felder, executive director of human resources.

“Tasha and Suba have unique and complementary backgrounds that together will push these efforts in new and innovative directions. Their work will not only set the standards for our DEI programs, but will also elevate internal and external relationships that support and enhance the ways we celebrate a wide range of experiences, backgrounds, and points of view,” Felder said.

Gilroy will lead talent and partnership initiatives that build VMLY&R’s pipeline of top talent in North America and globally. In this role, she will guide the vision and execution for an equitable talent recruitment and retention strategy across the network. She will continue managing and growing the agency’s many existing relationships with partner organisations such as 4A’s MAIP, ColorComm, AAF Mosaic Center for Multiculturalism, One Club for Creativity, and 3% Conference.

Nadarajah will lead the development and implementation of internal strategies that nurture a vibrant, inclusive, and equitable global culture. In this role, she will cultivate independent employee networks and programs and wider industry support systems in collaboration with organizations such as NAAAP, Mid-America GLCC, and GLAAD. She will also lead in-agency advocacy, identifying and advancing best practices, education, and employee engagement programs that promote progressive environments where all talent can thrive. 

“Our goal is for the diversity of our teams to reflect the diversity of the world we create for,” said Jon Cook, VMLY&R global CEO. “While we’ve taken many steps forward—as a Top 100 Best Adoption Friendly Workplace and committed partner to organizations like the 3% Movement—we know how much work we have left to do. DEI is a critical dimension of our success as an agency and industry, and we will continue our education and investment to support an inclusive, diverse workforce and pipeline of leaders.”

Gilroy and Nadarajah will work together to introduce new programs across the U.S. and global markets such as Brave Questions, Safe Spaces (BQSS) a platform designed to promote intersectional dialogue, awareness, and community. It encourages employees to engage in respectful conversations about cultures or perspectives they may otherwise feel nervous discussing. BQSS has sponsored thought-provoking conversations with notable guests such as Academy Award-winning 'BlacKkKlansman' co-writer Kevin Willmott and Telly Leung, star of Fox’s hit series 'Glee' and Disney's 'Aladdin' on Broadway.