Pierre Lagrange

Diversity is a reality, but inclusion is a choice

Stephen Frost, Maria Cantillon, Richard Ditizio, Pierre Lagrange, Brenda Trenowden

Driven by geopolitical shifts that revealed the risks of homogeneity, the event redefines diversity and inclusion as a core profitability strategy that correlates with 15% higher financial outperformance. State Street's presentation details concrete operational changes, including mandatory gender-balanced shortlists, skills-based blind recruitment, and localized metrics across European markets to combat unconscious bias and the "merit trap." The discussion further highlights how leadership styles must shift from competition to cooperation while leveraging procurement demands and cultural programs to align internal practices with diverse global client bases.