Diversity and inclusion are now firmly embedded throughout our economy and in our workplaces across Scotland.

We know diversity delivers positive business outcomes and that diverse organisations attract and retain talent and enable it to flourish.

The importance of driving diversity and inclusion at all levels of an organisation is here to stay.

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But we cannot show any complacency – we know more still needs to be done to make sure our workforces reflect our society and that organisations create a culture where everyone can be themselves and can achieve their ambitions. 

That’s what we want to focus on at this year’s Diversity Conference, which is being held for the third year.

Let’s recognise those who are breaking down barriers and challenging industry norms.

Let’s hear from the individuals working tirelessly to ensure that diversity is not simply an add-on – that it is mainstream business practice.

And let’s talk honestly and openly about the challenges that we still face.

This is Scotland’s Diversity Conference and we look forward to welcoming you in May. Everyone has a part to play.

To support Scotland’s ambition to create fairer and more inclusive workplaces, The Herald and GenAnalytics have joined forces to host Scotland’s National Diversity Conference, on May 7, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Glasgow

The event will engage, inspire and showcase organisations, companies, workplaces and individuals who are leading the way in promoting and supporting greater diversity and equality.

There is also the opportunity for you to contribute and network directly with experts and experienced professionals in the field of Diversity, Inclusion and Equalities who will share their know-how and expertise in specialist workshops.

Diversity has never been more important to our businesses, our economy and our society.

This is an event you do not want to miss.

Book early and add your expertise to our growing Diversity, Inclusion and Equalities knowledge network.

Jennifer Blee, procurement director at BAE Systems, said: “BAE Systems is proud to play our part in the 2019 Diversity Conference for Scotland. Every year the conference is an inspiring event full of enthusiasm for diversity and reinforces our drive and commitment to make BAE Systems a more inclusive workplace.”

Lee Ann Panglea, head of CIPD Scotland and Northern Ireland, said: “Promoting and supporting diversity in the workplace is an important aspect of good people management, and the CIPD is delighted to continue our support for 
the Herald Diversity Awards and Conference, championing organisations who are working hard to create truly inclusive workplaces in Scotland.”

Dr Graham Paterson, executive director at City Building LLP, said: “We recently commissioned a workforce diversity insight analysis to allow us to benchmark our performance.

"Diversity is extremely important to us and we want to understand better how we are performing and how we can improve. We continue to develop strategies to target young people from a wide variety of backgrounds, including ethnic minority and other under-represented groups. The construction industry has long been male-dominated and tackling this issue required major cultural change. By supporting the Conference we are seeking to build a better workplace.”

Sarah McNulty, director HR Operations at ScottishPower, said: “We value every individual’s differences and the insights they bring to how we think, what we believe, and who we are. We’re delighted to be supporting the Herald Diversity Conference once again in what has become one of the main events in the Scotland’s inclusion calendar.”

Kirsty McGill, head of sales for Taylor Wimpey West Scotland, said: “As we enter our third year of sponsorship and support of The Diversity Conference, we believe it is a great forum to explore how we can shape and develop the conversation to further embrace diversity and inclusion within our industry, as well as the wider business community in Scotland. Sharing best practice and knowledge in the range of formats this event offers is really productive, and we are looking forward to this year’s conference.”

Roy Gardner, vice principal, Corporate Development and Innovation at City of Glasgow College, said: “The City of Glasgow College is very proud to support this year’s Conference as we recognise the significant importance of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace. We are looking forward to seeing the outstanding and innovative working practice that takes place across Scotland every day”.

Katy Wedderburn, head of employment at MacRoberts, said: “We are delighted to again sponsor the Diversity Conference as it launches for its third year. 

“As a firm we are fully committed to the promotion of Diversity and Inclusion so partnering the conference is a natural fit for us. Last year’s conference was such an inspiring and educational day and I am sure it will be even better this year.”

To book a place, visit http://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/the-diversity-conference/or call events manager Nina Holmes on 0141 302 6036.