Aline Santos and Jack Myers in Conversation. What Do Companies Need to Do to Suceed

It is often thought that the larger the company, the slower it is to change but that is not necessarily true. Take Unilever for example. This huge global corporation with over 150,000 employees, is not only a world leader in advancing initiatives, it also has the impetus for change baked into its DNA. 

This Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at 1p, MediaVillage’s Jack Myer sits down with Aline Santos, Global Executive Vice President, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Unilever to discuss a range of global issues and how her company is proactively instituting change that not only impacts the company itself but arguably society at large.

Among the subjects to be discussed include:

     >  Unilever’s leadership in creating a world for the greater good through activism and initiatives that can also advance a rippling effect throughout the industry.

     >The company’s focus on product development to meets the needs of un-served or under-represented consumer groups. 

   

      >Highlighting Unilever’s ongoing efforts to break down stereotypes both within the company in throughout the global marketplace.

     >  Understanding the need to further dimensionalize the consumer beyond gender, for example, by adding in nationality and body type to gain further insights. 

     >  Recognizing the impact of current events on the business from Black Lives Matter to domestic abuse to food insecurity and being sincere and authentic in addressing these issues.

     >  Changing the paradigm of business from the rationality of technology to a more empathetic human condition both in internal leadership and external efforts. 

     >  But also note where technology and the current pandemic lock-down can increase human connection and representation. Remote meetings give everyone a chance to speak and be heard while sheltering-in-place reduces face-to-face networking over lunch and on the golf course which can place women at a disadvantage. 

     >  Focusing of diversity in the workplace that goes beyond broad concepts and fully integrate all ranges of personnel experiences and conditions including their disability initiative and the push for paternal leave.

     >  Insuring that all of Unilever’s brands are fully connected to the needs and aspirations of real people and understanding that the consumer is now in charge of culture, rather than the company dictating what the culture is to the consumer. The importance of trust and authenticity is paramount.

     >  Unilever’s imperative to create content and messaging that speaks to and respects the consumer, is created by diverse voices, places the brand in unique contexts and programming and might even have a greater political and legal impact.  

Being on the forefront of cultural change can be challenging but it is also invigorating, energizing and affirming. It is also good for business as Santos’ conversation with Myers will reveal.

This article first appeared in www.MediaVillage.com