SUPPLIER DIVERSITY
overlooked, but they also gain a real competitive edge by harnessing the strengths of neurodivergent employees.”
Speaking at Sustainability LIVE, Felizitas Lichtenberg, Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and Sustainability at SumUp, also highlighted the importance of leadership in driving inclusion:“ It’ s important to have leadership support and visibility – and our founders are super in favour of diversity and really supportive.”
She added:“ What we’ re trying to do is also understand the data. We have to ask, what is our representation? What is the census? Where are our gaps in understanding if we are biased or not? Are we missing some talent opportunities here?” Asking these questions is an important part of any inclusive supply chain management strategy, but – according to Kelly and Felizitas – should be paired with active engagement with employee experiences.
“ I also think it’ s super important to listen to our people,” says Felizitas.“ And then in order to increase productivity again, we have to speak about racism, speak about neurodiversity, about domestic violence and abuse, LGBTQ + issues and, of course, mental health.”
Beyond ethics, embracing diversity has clear business benefits.
Kelly points out that companies which support neurodivergent employees often see improvements in retention, engagement and productivity. Many neurodivergent individuals excel in roles requiring pattern recognition,
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