All women deserve a seat at the table – leaders must challenge, innovate and take action

Kelly Becker

Zone President UK&I , Schneider Electric

There is no better role model for an international company committed to creating a more diverse, equal and inclusive workplace than having a woman leading one of its most significant regions. It’s time to lead by example.

Kelly Becker, Zone President UK & Ireland for Schneider Electric, was appointed to the role just over two years ago and is responsible for the company’s operations across the two countries. 

“I was inspired to take on this position by my passion for innovation and sustainability, as well as my belief in the company’s purpose for empowering people to make the most of their energy and resources. As passionate as I am about our mission, I am committed to our people, their development and creating a workplace where people want to be, learn and can succeed,” she says. 

Overcoming unconscious bias 

Kelly is dedicated to promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) both within the company and the wider industry. 

However, she strongly believes there is still a lot of work to do, particularly the need for more diverse leadership at all levels of an organisation and more targeted efforts to recruit and retain underrepresented groups. 

“Companies need to address unconscious bias and create a more inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and supported. I want everyone to recognise that they deserve a seat at the table,” she says. 

Employers must not fail to remember that their employees have individual circumstances, goals and lives outside of work. They must offer support systems to help them through their endeavours so they can maximise their potential. Invest, develop, retain and repeat — we all have a responsibility to focus on our people. 

I work to foster an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and respected.

Providing the right support 

Businesses have introduced wide-ranging projects to help people who need support, for example, through employee resource groups (ERGs). The company also partners with schools, colleges and universities to promote careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Businesses and leaders who truly value DE&I ensure their advocacies and actions don’t stop at the end of the work day.

I’m personally involved in a number of initiatives aimed at supporting women. I am a member of CBI’s London Council, I serve on the Leadership Advisory Board for the Darden School of Business and on the Executive Board of Directors with the French Chamber and British American Business. Being involved and serving as a member allows me to inspire and support women in their career journey, particularly in this industry. It takes careful thinking and planning to succeed in driving diversity and this is not just based on gender, but diversity of thought, diversity of experience, diversity of
background.”

“I believe DE&I is critical to driving innovation and creating a more sustainable future. As a leader, I work to foster an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and respected,” Kelly concludes. 

Attributed to its DE&I initiatives and employee experience, Schneider Electric is rated 4.2 out of 5 on Glassdoor.