Diageo creates new unit to give Black community "seat at the table"

Diageo creates new unit to give Black community “seat at the table”

Diageo is to launch a standalone business unit with the sole purpose of promoting diversity and inclusion in the North American spirits industry.

The dedicated division, called Pronghorn, aims to enact “meaningful and long-lasting change” within spirits, Diageo said yesterday. The group has partnered with two industry veterans, Dia Simms and Erin Harris, on the new initiative.

Financial details were not disclosed, however, the project is part of Diageo’s ‘Society 2030: Spirit of Progress’, a global ten-year action plan announced last year. Goals include increasing the representation of its global leaders from diverse backgrounds to 45% and achieving at least 50% representation of women in leadership roles.

“It’s important that the Black community is represented on both sides of the bar, from brand creation to boardrooms and everywhere in between,” said Simms, who named the unit after a North American antelope called Pronghorn. “We’re proud to partner with Diageo to make sure that the Black community has a seat at the table. And anywhere there isn’t enough room at the table we’ll build a bigger table.”

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue & Development – Diversity in Drinks