As former Co-Chair of the LGBT+ Network at Virgin Media O2 (‘Proudly’), Max (he/him) was responsible for the LGBT+ inclusion strategy, leading the 30-strong steering group, advising the business and ultimately representing and maximising impact for VMO2’s LGBT+ people and 1,300 network members. Following a Joint Venture, Max helped bring both businesses together and led the creation and delivery of its strategy for LGBTQ+ inclusion. Under his leadership, the network was recognised externally, including shortlisting in the Pink News Awards and Proud Scotland Awards. In his second year leading the network, the team achieved great things, including its first national in-person pride season since COVID-19 and driving the business to commit firm, public targets to gender parity – inclusive of diverse gender identities and expressions. However, the biggest achievement was for the business to commit to support trans and gender non-conforming employees by funding gender transition treatment – a true breakthrough moment. Max has recently left VMO2 to join Google, where he is excited to see how best he can make a difference as an inclusive leader. He is a LGBTQ+ mentor through the Career Accelerator programme, where he provides coaching and mentorship to a LGBTQ+ rising star.
