Rebecca Short

1
Member of the Management Board, Chief Operating Officer
Deutsche Bank

Rebecca Short is Deutsche Bank’s Chief Operating Officer, a member of the Management Board, and a co-Sponsor of dbPride, Deutsche Bank's Employee Resource Group for LGBTQ+ and ally employees. Rebecca is at the forefront of advocating for an inclusive work environment in the bank and encourages employees to stand alongside LGBTQ+ colleagues to draw on diverse views and experiences to better support the bank’s clients. Rebecca has directly helped dbPride increase its global coordination, ensure support from all levels of the organization and championed LGBTQ+ inclusion around the world. She actively supports Deutsche Bank’s LGBTQ+ award submissions, celebrates their wins, participates in Pride marches as well as internal dbPride events. Rebecca goes above and beyond to engage with the LGBTQ+ community and remains a visible and credible ally.

Jen Tippin

2
Group Chief Operating Officer
NatWest Group

As Group Chief Operating Officer, Jen leads NatWest Group's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategy and is Executive Sponsor, member, and ally for the firm’s LGBTQ+ employee network. Jen co-chairs NatWest Group’s One Bank Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Committee, bringing together key stakeholders to share best practice and drive positive change. Jen pushes for constant improvement, e.g., by updating NatWest Group’s parental leave policy, introducing the first LGBTQ+ bank wide training module and enhanced private medical support for colleagues going through gender reassignment. Jen relentlessly holds leaders to account for attracting and retaining diverse talent and building strong sustainable pipelines. Jen has driven improvements to the experiences for LGBTQ+ customers, including providing more inclusive options for customers going through transition and enhancing the process for disclosing gender. Externally, Jen is a proactive ambassador, speaking at various events, external panels, interviews, and initiatives to support the LGBTQ+ community and facilitate change.

Peter Gibbons

3
Group President Enterprise Supply Chain
3M

Peter Gibbons, Group President of Enterprise Supply Chain at 3M, has actively advocated for LGBTQ+ inclusion as the Executive Sponsor of 3M Pride for three years. He has utilized his leadership to elevate 3M Pride, guiding DEI initiatives in challenging environments like manufacturing, securing resources for Pride events, and championing LGBTQ+ inclusion across the company. During Peter's leadership, 3M sponsored the Twin Cities Parade for the first time in 2024 and trained nearly every plant manager globally in LGBTQ+ inclusion. His personal experiences as an ally have shaped his commitment to fostering a more inclusive workplace. Through his support of Pride flag-raising initiatives and external engagements like the Involve Gala and Quorum's National Coming Out Day, Peter has ensured LGBTQ+ voices are heard and valued within and beyond 3M.

Amy Wilson

4
General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Dow

Amy Wilson is the General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Dow. She is also the Executive Sponsor of GLAD, Dow’s LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group. As a strong advocate for inclusion, diversity, and equity, she has hosted numerous sessions and events highlighting topics relevant to LGBTQ+ inclusion over the years, including joining a discussion panel at Dow’s 2023 LEAD conference to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organization, from the Boardroom to the C-suite, to office buildings and manufacturing sites. Amy has been a key driver in diversifying and refreshing Dow's Board of Directors, emphasizing diverse experiences and backgrounds. Outside of Dow, Amy is a member of the Leadership Counsel on Legal Diversity, which is striving to build a more equitable and diverse legal profession. Amy has been named an Ally or Advocate Role Model by Outstanding for five consecutive years.

Brian McNamara

5
Chief Executive Officer
Haleon

Brian McNamara, Chief Executive Officer of Haleon, is a proud ally and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Launched as an independent company in July 2022, Haleon was in a unique position to demonstrate its commitment to inclusion right from the outset - something Brian sees as integral to Haleon living its purpose. As a leader, Brian is passionate about doing what he can to create a world where we are no longer judged for our race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation or how we choose to identify. Brian is a Board Member of Mondelẽz International, Inc and the Consumer Goods Forum, and has previously served as a Board Member and Chairman of the Global Self Care Federation (GSCF) and was an active member of the Board of Trustees for the charity Treloar’s. In 2021, he was recognized in the Top 10 Business Allies Award at the British LGBT Awards.

Anne Aslett

6
Chief Executive Officer
Elton John AIDS Foundation

Anne is the global Chief Executive Officer of the Elton John AIDS Foundation and has served the charity, in various capacities, for 20 years. She leads the Foundation’s mission and activities across the UK, the United States, Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe, including annual granting to programs in over 20 countries. During Anne’s tenure the Foundation has raised over $600m to become a top AIDS funder globally; has saved the lives of over 5 million of the most marginalized people in the world and raised awareness of HIV amongst more than 100 million people. Anne continues to steer the Foundation through The Rocket Fund, the Foundation’s transformative $125 million campaign to redouble the fight against AIDS everywhere. Through the Fund in 2023, the Foundation tripled its reach to support the health of 280,000 people in key communities across 42 countries, including LGBTQ+ people.

Maria Abbonizio

7
Global Chief Administrative Office, Asset Management
Fidelity International

Maria was until recently the Global Co-Chair of Fidelity International’s LGBTQ+ Network based in Hong Kong, bringing more focus on regional benchmarking, external collaborations and setting appropriate KPIs in an APAC context whilst ensuring Fidelity continues to make progress against global standards. She passionately role models allyship behaviours, organizing webinars and bringing allies into the LGBTQ+ Network. Maria is an active mentor, having mentored extensively over the last ten years within Fidelity and more recently through INvolve’s cross-industry program.

Shannon Leininger

8
Vice President, Global Partner Sales
Cisco Systems

Shannon Leininger, Vice President of Global Partner Sales at Cisco, is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and diversity. As the Executive Sponsor for Cisco's Pride Americas Employee Resource Organization (ERO), she has championed LGBTQ+ issues, advanced career development, and promoted allyship within the company. Under her recent leadership as President of Cisco Canada, the company has been recognized as a Best Workplace for Inclusion, with 98% of employees feeling fairly treated regardless of sexual orientation. Shannon has also expanded her advocacy to the Americas, amplifying research on LGBTQ+ issues and speaking at external events. Her personal connection to the cause further fuels her commitment to creating inclusive workplaces. Shannon previously served as an Executive Sponsor for Cisco's Global Mindfulness & Resilience network, for Women of Cisco Canada, and for other inclusion initiatives, consistently driving positive change at Cisco and beyond.

Cristina Diezhandino

9
Chief Marketing Officer
Diageo

As Chief Marketing Officer, Cristina is responsible for the design and implementation of Diageo's commitment to progressive marketing across Diageo’s 200+ brands in over 180 countries. Diageo is one of the world's largest advertisers and is committed to a media environment where everyone, from script to screen, sees themselves represented. Under Cristina's leadership, Diageo updated its Progressive Marketing framework to be at the forefront of breaking stereotypes in advertising for gender, race, sexuality, age, ability, and social status. All of Diageo’s marketeers and agencies globally are trained on this framework. In 2021, Diageo committed to a multi-million-pound global program to invest in media platforms and publishers working to make media more diverse. This commitment was shown in December 2022, with J&B Spain’s "She" campaign making visible the experience of trans and LGTBQIA+ communities during Christmas, with the aim that more and more families would empathize with their story and become a place to celebrate us all. Cristina is Global Executive Sponsor of the Diageo Rainbow Network, supporting, encouraging and championing the work of the group. Her role has included opening the celebrations to launch Diageo Great Britain's partnership with Queer Britain (UK's first national LGBTQ+ museum), with a speech reinforcing Diageo's commitment to the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ employees globally.

Landon Loomis

10
President, Latin America & Caribbean
Boeing

Landon Loomis, President of Boeing Latin America & Caribbean, co-founded the Boeing Employee Pride Alliance (BEPA) LatAm, the first LGBTQ+ affinity group in the region. Under his leadership, BEPA LatAm has created a space for open dialogue on inclusion and transparency, fostering a just culture within Boeing's rapidly growing team. BEPA organized seven impactful events in just six months, bringing together senior leadership and promoting cultural growth. Landon also serves on the Pan American Development Foundation board, where he advocates for disadvantaged and underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQ+ community. His commitment to mentorship, allyship, and creating inclusive networks has inspired junior professionals and non-LGBTQ members, helping break down biases and foster a culture of belonging across Boeing's Latin American operations. 

Donna Milrod

11
Executive Vice President, Chief Product Officer
State Street Corporation

Donna Milrod is the Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer at State Street Corporation, where, for the past four years, she has served as Executive Sponsor for State Street's PRIDE network, one of the global financial institution's largest and most popular Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), focused on LGBTQ+ employee and community support, education, and advocacy. Donna also works to champion underrepresented groups seeking corporate board seats, leveraging her board appointments and experience. Donna is also a member of the State Street Executive Committee, which serves as the company’s most senior strategy and policy-making teams, including implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Georgia Dawson

12
Senior Partner
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

As Senior Partner, Georgia has ensured LGBTQ+ inclusion is firmly a part of the firm’s overall DEI strategy, including setting concrete global targets at partner level. She also passionately pursues LGBTQ+ causes through her legal pro bono work and through publicly championing LBGTQ+ causes and events. Georgia has continued the work she did as Asia Managing Partner around increasing coverage of LGBTQ+ issues, celebrating the community’s achievements, and promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and allyship in communications and townhalls.

Georgina Fogo

13
Chief Risk Officer
Janus Henderson Investors

Georgina is the Executive Sponsor and ally of the LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group and Chair of the DEI Committee at Janus Henderson. Georgina’s mission is to be a visible and vocal ally with the aim of creating a safe and inclusive work environment for everyone at Janus Henderson. In the past two years, she has organized Trans Awareness training for the Executive Committee. She supported a 'Trans Inclusion: The Basics' education session for her employees and has been an active and vocal supporter of extending the firm’s benefits to support surrogacy, adoption, and gender affirmation. Georgina championed gender pronouns in the organization, working in partnership to agree on email signatures and guidelines incorporating the use of pronouns. She promotes awareness of the LGBTQ+ employee group and internal and external events, through messages, emails and newsletters as well encouraging senior leaders to attend LGBTQ+ events to show visible allyship and support.

Matt Oppenheimer

14
Chief Executive Officer
Remitly

Matt Oppenheimer, Co-founder & CEO of Remitly, views diversity and inclusion as a business advantage, and strives to drive a culture of belonging across the company. Under his leadership, Remitly’s Out@Remitly LGBTQA chapters thrive in offices worldwide, including Seattle, Cork, Managua, and Manila. Matt supports LGBTQ+ employees at all levels and ensures that the company’s values, such as “Be a Compassionate Partner” and “Be Global,” foster an inclusive environment. These values create a space where employees are encouraged to extend empathy into action, value diverse experiences, and respect each person’s unique perspective. Matt’s vision of a customer-centric and evolving company culture is at the core of Remitly’s success, aligning with his belief that a strong, inclusive culture drives transformative business outcomes.

Ulrike Schwarz-Runer

15
Managing Director and Senior Partner, General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer
Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

Ulrike Schwarz-Runer is the Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where she serves on the Executive Committee and champions LGBTQ+ inclusion. As the executive sponsor for BCG's 2024 LGBTQ+ safety initiative, she oversees efforts to equip employees with tools for navigating safety abroad, conducts emergency response training, and enhances LGBTQ+ inclusive policies. Ulrike has also been a major champion for BCG’s Di@L initiative (Diversity and Inclusion at Legal) which has been instrumental in recruiting efforts and implementing various DEI-focused policies and initiatives across BCG offices. She backs global LGBTQ+ advocacy, including BCG's support for the Equality Act, marriage equality, and anti-discrimination efforts. A regular speaker at events like the Global Pride@BCG Summit, Ulrike also supported a study on the economic impact of marriage equality in the U.S., underscoring her commitment to inclusion in BCG and the broader business community.

Terecina Kwong

16
Chief Operating Officer, HSBC Wealth and Personal Banking
HSBC

Terecina, the Chief Operating Officer, HSBC Wealth and Personal Banking at HSBC, sponsored various Diversity and Inclusion groups within HSBC, bringing diverse groups together across Regions and Global and emphasize the importance of tone from the top. Terecina has placed significant focus on sharing her thoughts and examples in driving diversity and inclusion and what good looks like to create an inclusive workplace. She is a keynote speaker and has appeared at various events and on panel discussions. She believes her role as an Executive Committee Member within HSBC gives her an excellent opportunity to step up and foster cultural changes, particularly at the senior management level.

Mohit Shukla

17
Managing Director - India Legal and Lead: India Government and Regulatory Relations
Barclays

Mohit is Managing Director - India Legal and Lead for India Government and Regulatory Relations for Barclays in India. He is the Executive Sponsor and an ally for the Barclays LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group, Spectrum, for India, and Co-Chair for Spectrum Asia-Pacific. Mohit is a senior advisor to the gender diversity employee resource group and actively promotes DEI awareness, enhancing visibility and inclusion of LGBTQ+ communities and mainstreaming their participation. Furthermore, Mohit has been supporting and helping build on sensitization, inter-sectionality, creating training on DEI topics for leaders, encouraging colleagues to be visible and vocal allies, and embedding, among others, a gender reassignment policy. His efforts have improved overall inclusion at Barclays in India. Mohit has also been active outside the company by hosting and participating in LGBTQ+ events, talks and festivals, and with sponsorship support for external community engagements.

Julie Linn Teigland

18
Europe, Middle East, India and Africa (EMEIA) CEO and Area Managing Partner
EY

Julie co-chairs the EY EMEIA Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee, a forum which spearheads initiatives to drive the EY diversity culture and performance. Julie created and appointed the first EMEIA LGBTQ+ Partner sponsor role and has endorsed an EMEIA LGBTQ+ inclusion strategy. In addition to ensuring that LGBTQ+ inclusion is prioritised by EY leadership, Julie actively engages with the over 150,000 employees in EMEIA on LGBTQ+ inclusion, and with the EY LGBTQ+ employee group “Unity.”

Leonardo Framil

19
CEO, Growth Markets
Accenture

Leonardo (Leo) Framil, CEO of Growth Markets at Accenture, is a committed advocate for diversity and inclusion. As a long-time sponsor of Accenture's Pride community, Leo actively supports LGBTQ+ initiatives and speaks at key events like the LGBT Leaders Learning (L3) event and International Women’s Day. He has promoted inclusion for years, sharing personal stories to inspire colleagues, including at the global Allies in Action event. Based in Brazil, Leo’s leadership extends across Latin America, where he has spearheaded impactful initiatives, including the racial equity program, Color Brave, and participated in the São Paulo LGBTQ+ parade. With over 24 years of consulting experience, Leo continues to champion equality within Accenture and through external engagements, using platforms like LinkedIn to raise awareness. 

Peter Markey

20
Chief Marketing Officer
Boots

Pete is the Executive Sponsor for Boots Pride BRG and uses this and his role as marketing lead to promote inclusion through advertising and marketing across all channels. Pete has worked with the BRG to shape a full program of events throughout the year including Pride Month campaign activity, featuring interviews and content from Boots team members and external guest speakers sharing their stories. Boots have also actively worked with suppliers and partners on an all year round DEI plan including LGBTQ+ under Pete’s sponsorship. In his time at Boots, Pete has spearheaded a number of high profile marketing campaigns which have inclusion weaved into the narrative and approach. Pete has been awarded two prestigious inclusion champion awards in reflection of his work as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.

Danielle Harmer

Chief People Officer
Aviva

Danny is Executive Co-Sponsor for Aviva Pride, Aviva’s LGBTQ+ community, which has recently celebrated over 15 years at Aviva. She regularly meets with the Pride co-chairs and is a visible ally taking part in events in and outside Aviva. Danny is also the Executive Sponsor of the Mx titles project, which is introducing gender neutral titles to Aviva’s customer journeys and bringing in new trans and non-binary training for Aviva colleagues. Danny is a regular panellist and podcast guest, championing the LGBTQ+ agenda, and speaking publicly about Aviva’s inclusive colleague policies, including equal parental and carers leave. A passionate ally for all Aviva’s communities, Danny encourages everyone to join her on this journey.

Raquel Floréz Escobar

Partner People & Reward, Co-Head of Global Markets
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

Raquel is Co-Head of Global Markets at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and a Partner in the firm’s People & Reward practice. As a leader, she regularly takes opportunities to advocate for LGBTQ+ colleagues and ensures that the firm’s approach toward LGBTQ+ inclusion fosters a culture where everyone feels they belong and can achieve their potential. As an LGBTQ+ Executive Sponsor and part of the Diversity & Inclusion Committee in the Madrid office, she continuously seeks opportunities to promote diversity through external partnerships and internal initiatives. She is currently supporting the CE Halo network who are working on a strategy to increase LGBTQ+ inclusion in the region. She is a founding member of the Spanish association REDI and has been working with the Madrid Bar Association (ICAM) on a guide of good practices for LGBTQ+ inclusion for law firms and lawyers in Madrid.

Andrea Jacob

Asia Pacific - Financial Controller
Fidelity International

Andrea Jacob, Asia Pacific Financial Controller at Fidelity International, passionately advocates LGBTQ+ inclusion. In 2024, she co-led Fidelity's LGBTQ+ Network, driving initiatives such as ally training, global Pride celebrations and participation in global inclusion benchmarking. Andrea spearheaded Fidelity Australia’s achievement of bronze status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index for LGBTQ+ inclusion and organized key events like celebrating the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Her efforts boosted allyship to 70% in Australia. Andrea is also a dedicated volunteer at Qtopia, where she helped establish the museum's bookkeeping function and supports ongoing governance over financial controls. She is a recognised mentor with the organisation LGBT+ Great, actively empowering minority talent. Andrea's commitment stems from her desire to foster an environment where everyone can be authentic.

Hitesh Sharma

Managing Director
Deutsche Bank

Under the leadership of its senior management, Deutsche Bank India has made significant strides in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion since 2015. A key focus has been the launch of initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive environment and it is here that Hitesh Sharma has played a pivotal role. Be it helping to organize the bank’s first Pride Walk at Mumbai’s Nirlon Knowledge Park, championing awareness campaigns, such as IDAHOT sessions and the “Pride Stories” panel series, which have helped raise visibility and support for the LGBTQ+ community within the organization, he has made a difference. The introduction of a transition surgery policy, ensuring comprehensive support for transgender employees were some key HR policies that he strongly supported. Furthermore, his collaboration with local organizations like the Humsafar Trust among others have also helped strengthen the bank’s community outreach and engagement on LGBTQ+ issues. Deutsche Bank being named runner-up in the LGBTQIA+ Inclusion category at the 2024 Bombay Chambers DEI Awards further underlines how through his advocacy, Hitesh has helped build an inclusive and supportive culture within Deutsche Bank and the broader community.

Louise Prashad

Chief HR Officer
Diageo

Louise was appointed Chief HR Officer in January 2022 and is the Executive member responsible for designing and implementing Diageo's Inclusion and Diversity strategy. She’s committed to creating an inclusive culture and has always championed the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring Diageo is a great place to work for LGBTQIA+ talent, and supports LGBTQ+ inclusion and rights worldwide. Her leadership was integral to developing Diageo's Gender Identity and Expression Guidelines, launched in 2020 and live in 40 countries. These Guidelines, developed alongside Diageo's Rainbow Network, ensure Diageo has support in place for employees who are transitioning, have transitioned, recognize themselves to be a different gender from the gender assigned to them at birth, and are gender-fluid or non-binary. With Louise's support, Diageo’s Employee Resource Groups empower everyone to champion inclusion and diversity, including the global Rainbow Network, which strives to create the most open culture for the LGBTQ+ community. Led by the Rainbow Network, 2024 Pride at Diageo was one of our biggest ever. 94 sites globally raised our Progress Pride flag to kick off the celebrations, with a variety of events, talks, panels, and parades bringing LGBTQ+ employees and allies together.

Helena Killingsworth

Head of Hotel Operations Support Services, Americas
IHG Hotels & Resorts (Intercontinental Hotels Group)

Helena Killingsworth is Head of Operations Support Services at IHG Hotels & Resorts, where she oversees a multinational team responsible for supporting IHG’s hotels with crisis and incident response, sales and operational support designed to help hotels drive performance. She passionately advocates for the LGBTQ+ community as a member of the leadership team for IHG’s Out and Open employee resource group. Helena creates safe spaces for open discussions, fostering understanding and acceptance, and volunteers with organizations supporting LGBTQ+ causes such as Aids Walk Atlanta and Chris 180. As a people leader, she actively cultivates an inclusive environment and promotes authenticity within her teams by role modeling IHG’s growth behaviors: dedicated, committed, ambitious and courageous. Her upbringing in the foster system deeply informs her allyship and motivates her to provide opportunities for open dialogue, vulnerability and connection, and always coming from a place of empathy and serving as an ally.

Yumiko Murakami

Managing Director, Accenture Technology, LGBTQ Ally Committee sponsor and Unit1 Lead, Japan
Accenture

Yumiko Murakami is Managing Director at Accenture Japan and LGBTQ+ Ally Committee Unit1 Lead. Currently leading the dozens-strong Ally Committee and the LGBTQ+ Initiative in Technology Consulting, Yumiko is spreading the impact of its efforts across the company, including to other organizations. In addition to leading the planning and organizing of monthly internal awareness events, Yumiko also organized a cross-functional event involving all Accenture Japan offices to raise awareness during Pride Enhancement Month. Yumiko will broaden the scope and maximize the effectiveness of its activities by collaborating with each of the Japan offices and local organizations, as well as with other themes that LGBTQ+ and DEI are working on. For a better place for each of us.

Vito Sperduto

Head of RBC Capital Markets U.S.
RBC Capital Markets

Vito Sperduto, as Head of RBC Capital Markets U.S. and co-executive sponsor of RBC PRIDE USA, has guided LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion initiatives for over eight years. His influential leadership has fortified recruitment efforts and educational programs, collaborating with entities like Out Leadership to enhance global LGBTQ+ talent development, aiding in RBC's commitment to a workplace where diversity thrives. His commitment has markedly boosted RBC’s employee involvement and Pride participation, nurturing an environment of inclusivity and belonging. With thirty-plus years in investment banking, Vito emphasizes clients, strategy and people, advocating for diverse teams as critical for innovation and the highest level of client service. A prominent speaker, he contributes to key forums, including the OutNEXT Global Summit, advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the financial sector. Vito also champions societal growth as Chairman of Play Rugby USA, reinforcing his engagement in community betterment.

Stuart White

Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Global Asset Management UK
HSBC

Stuart White is the Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Global Asset Management (U.K.) Ltd. He has led a dynamic DEI program for over five years, overseeing 11 workstreams, including LGBTQ+ initiatives, and earning recognition as a role model ally by LGBT Great. Under his leadership, HSBC achieved Gold status in the LGBT Great iiBT survey and was named a Top 50 Executives Ally. Stuart actively promotes LGBTQi+ awareness through webinars, Pride Week events, and participation in industry conferences, including hosting the OutLeadership annual European conference in 2022. His commitment extends to various initiatives, such as the LGBT Lens investing event and contributions to regulatory DEI consultations. An authenticity and mental health awareness advocate, he openly shares his challenges to help reduce stigma. In 2023, TLC Lions honored him as the 'Human CEO' of the year, reflecting his dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. 

Derek Young

Global Head of Asset Management Distribution
Fidelity International

Derek Young is Global Head of Asset Management Distribution and a member of the Global Operating Committee at Fidelity International. As Co-Executive Sponsor of Fidelity’s LGBTQ+ Employee Network and an advocate of driving gender diversity, Derek is passionate about creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. He was recognized most recently on Kindness & Leadership’s 50 Leading Lights, Asia Pacific list and LGBT Great’s Top 50 Executive Ally list. Under Derek’s leadership in his previous role of President, Japan, Fidelity Japan received “Gold” status for the sixth year in a row for the Pride Index Results. He is outspoken regarding gender balance, increasing the percent of gender diversity on committees and in senior leadership positions, and empowers his team to drive this agenda in Japan through the Asset Management Women’s Forum and the 30% Club where business leaders take action to increase gender diversity on boards and senior management.

Hamish Forsyth

President, Europe and Asia
Capital Group

As President of Europe and Asia at Capital Group, Chair of the firm's global operating committee, and Executive sponsor of Capital Group’s global Pride community, true allyship means empowerment and action for Hamish. CGPride is now one of the communities with a direct hand in shaping key business decisions, and so for example, LGBTQ+ care was integrated alongside the US healthcare plans and specialist recruitment support. This has helped to guide Capital Group’s corporate charitable giving, and as such, a portion of the emergency humanitarian support raised for Ukraine was ringfenced for organizations aiding LGBTQ+ refugees. Outside the firm, Hamish is a member of the Diversity Project's Advisory Council, a cross-industry initiative that champions an inclusive culture within asset management. In addition, he was involved in creating the equity and justice donation program, which galvanizes Capital associates across all communities to nominate charities where Capital Group makes a $2500 annual donation per associate. This has had an impact on LGBTQ+ organizations around the world, offering support to pillars of the LGBTQ+ community, such as Queer Britain and LGBTQ+ switchboard.

David Djaha

Managing Partner
Ropes & Gray LLP

David Djaha is the managing partner at Ropes & Gray LLP, where he has been integral to its mission to set the standard in the legal industry for a community that is diverse, equitable and inclusive, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals. He has spearheaded the development and implementation of a strategic DEI plan encompassing all cohorts at the firm. It includes an allyship pillar and a pioneering diversity hours policy for lawyers, resulting in the most diverse associate and partner classes in the firm's history. David actively promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion through the firm's LGBTQ+ Forum, a network of 250 members and allies devoted to education, support and social connection. His collaborative work with Out Leadership has helped increase LGBTQ+ representation in corporate boardrooms and produced important research. Through pro bono work with organizations like the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund, David has helped hundreds of LGBTQ+ people with legal issues.

Helle Bank Jorgensen

CEO & Founder, Competent Boards
Competent Boards

Helle Bank Jorgensen is the CEO and Founder of Competent Boards, where she champions diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential pillars of sustainability. Under her leadership, the organization has partnered with LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, showcasing LGBTQ+ directors and embedding inclusive practices in their policies. Helle's commitment extends to her advocacy work through "Critical Conversations," emphasizing the vital intersection of sustainability and inclusion, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. Recognized for her global leadership in ESG, she underscores how diverse leadership enhances business performance and innovation. Helle has also participated in prominent media engagements, including a podcast for the International Leadership Association, discussing the importance of LGBTQ+ voices in decision-making. Her extensive international experience informs her holistic approach to inclusion, promoting intersectionality in governance. Recognized in the SustainabilityX Global 50, Helle continues to influence corporate governance, ensuring that LGBTQ+ diversity remains a central focus in creating lasting impact. 

Richard Jefferies

Global Head of Leveraged Finance
Sustainable Fitch

Richard Jefferies is the Global Head of Leveraged Finance at Sustainable Fitch and a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion. Since becoming the a leader of the Fitch Group’s Pride Network in 2021 culminating as the Global Co-Chair of the network until January 2024, he expanded initiatives of the network globally, fostering a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ colleagues. Under his leadership, Fitch Group achieved a Gold Award in 2023 and ranked in the top 100 of the Stonewall Index. He has also initiated a partnership with Queer Britain, promoting awareness through events. Richard's commitment to allyship stems from personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces for authenticity. His dedication to fostering diversity is rooted in his experiences in global companies, reinforcing his belief in the power of inclusion and collective action to drive meaningful change within the workplace.

Steve Kemps

Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer
S&P Global

Steve Kemps is Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at S&P Global, where he is a passionate ally and champion of the LGBTQ+ community. He often speaks at company events about the importance of acceptance, inclusion, and belonging. In partnership with the People team, Steve led efforts to expand S&P Global’s paid parental leave to a minimum of 26 weeks for all parents, including adoption, surrogacy and fostering, as well as increased fertility treatment coverage. He served as Executive Sponsor of the company’s Pride People Resource Group and helped lay the foundation for Pride's global expansion, with twelve of their sixteen chapters outside the US and UK. Steve has also advocated for S&P Global's signature on multiple Human Rights Campaign Foundation amicus briefs supporting LGBTQ+ inclusive business practices. Steve is grateful to his son, Johnny, for giving him the inspiration, passion and drive to continue to do more, everywhere.

Richard Sykes

SVP and President, UK & Ireland
ABM Industries

Richard Sykes is the SVP and President for the U.K. & Ireland at ABM Industries, one of the largest providers of facility and infrastructure solutions. A passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ colleagues, Richard has been pivotal in driving ABM’s inclusivity efforts, most notably through the launch of the ABM Rainbow Group, a support network for LGBTQ+ team members and allies in the UK and Ireland. Richard's leadership in creating and growing the Group reflects his belief in the power of visible advocacy. The group has raised vital funds for organizations like Stonewall, participated in the London Pride March and collaborates with the International Professional Security Association. Richard’s focus on day-to-day inclusivity has made ABM a more supportive environment for LGBTQ+ team members and his efforts aim to ensure that colleagues feel valued and represented every day. Through meaningful acts of advocacy, Richard is helping to build not only a more inclusive company but a more equitable society.

Sharon Lewis

Partner, Sector Head of Financial Institutions and Co-Chair of Digital Assets & Blockchain Practice
Hogan Lovells

Sharon Lewis is a Partner and Sector Head of Financial Institutions at Hogan Lovells, where she champions LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion. As a strong ally, Sharon has played a pivotal role in establishing Hogan Lovells as a leading supporter of Out Leadership, advocating for a safe environment for all employees to be authentic. She emphasizes the importance of attracting and retaining a diverse workforce, believing that firms must actively demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity. Sharon facilitates connections between clients and the LGBTQ+ network, showcasing the business value of diversity. Her efforts include co-hosting events like Out Leadership’s OutWomen receptions in New York and CEO-level LGBTQ+ dinners around the world. A passionate advocate for gender equality, Sharon regularly speaks on women's progress in the financial sector, reinforcing her dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive culture for LGBTQ+ colleagues and raising awareness of their challenges.

Sean Spinks

Customer Operations & Complaints Director
AXA UK

Sean Spinks is the Customer Operations & Complaints Director at AXA UK and serves as the Executive Sponsor for the company's Pride Network. In his ten months in this role, Sean has facilitated numerous events and learning sessions, including participation in Bristol Pride, fostering an environment that celebrates diversity within the organization. He actively engages with the network through monthly meetings and has benefited from a reverse mentorship with a trans woman, enhancing his understanding of LGBTQ+ advocacy. Sean believes in creating an inclusive workplace and driving ongoing dialogues about LGBTQ+ issues. Drawing from his experience in a large company and as a parent, he is passionate about nurturing an inclusive society where everyone can thrive. His commitment to the Pride Network has positively impacted AXA's openness and given him a profound sense of pride and purpose in his role.

Avashna Ramnarain

Founder & CEO
Mindful Masterminds & Masterminds@Play

Avashna Ramnarain is the Founder and CEO of Mindful Masterminds, a company dedicated to de-stigmatizing mental health and empowering youth through technology and innovation. With 15 years of corporate marketing experience in Africa, she integrates tech-driven educational strategies to foster social change. Her initiatives, like empowering disadvantaged women to produce eco-friendly merchandise, promote gender equality and sustainability. Masterminds@Play, her immersive learning space, combines virtual reality and STEM-focused areas, backed by sponsors like Epson, Lenovo, and Nestlé. Avashna’s Free Expression Friday’s initiative offers underserved children free meals and access to technology, reinforcing inclusivity. Her work in education and mental health has earned her accolades such as the Female Founders Initiative Global Award and Women of Stature nominee. Avashna is committed to promoting inclusion, diversity, and empowerment across Africa.

Pippa Hugill

Global Senior Director Employee Learning Experience - Campaign, Content & Insights
Ralph Lauren

Pippa Hugill is the Global Senior Director Employee Learning Experience Campaign, Content & Insights at Ralph Lauren, where she led the creation and launch of the LGBTQ+ Global Learning Capsule. The initiative, launched to all employees globally, contains foundational, intermediate, and advanced learning. Pippa has also been a continuously active member in the #RLPride LBGTQ+ EIG (Employee Impact Group), attending local meetings and proactively promoting the group's great work. She firmly believes that as a leader, one has the influence and ability to ally with and advocate for others.