Diversity and inclusion: “We’re better together”
Wholesale News caught up with Sysco GB to find out how support groups have enable the business to drive forward its diversity actions
Supporting colleagues is nothing new for Sysco GB. Sharing its vision to create a global culture that is diverse, equitable and inclusive, Communications Director Jess Latimer explains: “Every individual contributes to our purpose, bringing a unique skillset and perspective to their work each day. Simply put, we’re better together.”
“That’s why we’re working hard to foster a culture of belonging that enables us to care for one another and connect the world through food and trusted partnerships. We are committed to supporting and sustaining an inclusive work environment that engages and enables a diverse workforce to drive customer service, loyalty and, ultimately, deliver business growth.”
So what does this look like in practice? “This means developing and delivering initiatives and training that support a culture where colleagues feel able to bring their whole selves to work, so that they can be successful every day,” says Latimer.
As part of Sysco GB’s strategy, there are four strategic pillars: communications and engagement, employee relations, learning and development, and recruitment. To support each pillar there are specific activities and metrics which are reported on a quarterly basis to colleagues.
Sysco has also introduced 48 ambassadors for diversity, equity and inclusivity (DE&I). These ‘influencers’ are colleagues who socialise DE&I initiatives and activities with leaders and colleagues at their locations, which has driven awareness of the strategy.
COLLEAGUE RESOURCE GROUPS
Creating colleague resource groups (CRG) has helped raise awareness of the differing needs and experiences of the workforce, identifying barriers to inclusivity and equality, and help Sysco GB to become a more inclusive place to work.
IMPACT
IMPACT (which stands for influence, mentor, potential, achieve, collaborate, transform) is a female-focused group where female colleagues can share stories and support, inspire them to reach their goals and be advocates in driving balance for better.
With hundreds of female members, the group always sees great participation in its activities from panels on confidence to sessions about health and nutrition.
Menopause is also a key focus area, with activities to support women as they experience the challenges of this life stage, and raise awareness among colleagues to facilitate understanding. ‘Mission Menopause’ provides practical advice and support materials including factsheets, videos and an opportunity to link with colleagues.
Sysco GB also holds regular wellness sessions which has led to a series of menopause awareness presentations taking place around the business.
SPECTRUM
One of the longest-established CRGs, Spectrum champions the rights of the LGBTQ+ community across Sysco. This year, the group supported its first external initiative, sponsoring the inaugural Ashford Pride (pictured left).
A safe, open and supportive environment, Spectrum has launched significant initiatives such as the installation of Progress Pride crossings at sites as a permanent reminder of the importance of diversity.
During Pride month, the group held events at every site to showcase the support that it offers. Spectrum also added pronouns to Microsoft profiles and Outlook signatures, in addition to hosting a pronoun and inclusive language education course for leaders and colleagues, and progressed pride signage at sites, such as wall graphics, painted steps and #Proudtobeme signage.
“We’ve promoted colleague video stories of inclusion including LGBTQ+ colleagues in addition to holding global and local LGBTQ+ events such as panels, videos, guest speakers and education sessions,” adds Latimer.
MINDS
Mental Inclusivity and NeuroDiversity at Sysco (MINDS) was created to raise awareness of neurodiversity and help individuals with specific needs. One in seven people are considered to be neurodivergent, meaning that their brain functions, learns and processes information differently. MINDS celebrates these differences and reaffirms that it’s OK to be different with awareness-raising training and colleague support.
CULTURE CLUB
Launched this April, this CRG offers a safe, supportive space for colleagues from ethnic cultures to share their challenges, experiences and learnings.
The official launch coincided with Ramadan, with a Ramadan awareness video posted on Sysco GB internal channels presented as a Pause for Purpose (“A Sysco initiative, where we pause to discuss a purpose-led topic,” explains Latimer) explaining reasons why Muslims fast, how Eid is celebrated and how the business can support the colleagues who are fasting.
Among the initiatives already implemented are the introduction of quiet/multi-faith rooms across eight sites, with a further eight planned, as well as the introduction of a colleague listening group to discuss culture, heritage and how the business can support all colleagues.
colleague resource groups Diversity and Inclusion Diversity in Wholesale Jess Latimer Sysco GB
