Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Norde.
Elena, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I currently work for one of the top Human Capital Management companies in the world, with over 12k employees globally. After being with the company for four years, I noticed a need for more diversity in Executive Leadership after not seeing anyone in that role who looked like me. I created a proposal highlighting the need, benefit, desire and statistics regarding the importance of creating an ERG specifically for the advancement and support of Black employees. Our Company has many other ERGs (employee resource group) but none related to race. In addition, to BUILD, I also created BEACON, which is a Leadership & Development umbrella for Diverse Talent. While BUILD would be the first group rolled out under the BEACON umbrella, I wanted to also ensure other Diverse groups within our organization had the same opportunity. It is imperative that we recognize diversity without diluting the individual needs of each specific group, which is why the umbrella was created.
My company was extremely supportive with this initiative and I was given the green light in January 2020 to begin putting my Committee together and solidifying plans. Our official launch isn’t until October 2020 but due to recent events within the Black Community, we have been working hard to make some real changes. One of those changes that we were instrumental in was getting our Company to recognize Juneteenth as an official Company Paid Holiday and we have also begun donating to nonprofit organizations that support the Black Community or align with our mission. Seeing what started as just a vision come to fruition is an amazing feeling. I’m so excited about the future of both groups and about the difference we can make.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The most difficult challenge was finding the right team. Working on the Committee of an ERG group does not provide additional pay but it does require a lot of additional work, time and commitment. It was important that whoever’s decided to be a part of the committee has a passion and desire to dedicate and commit to many hours of work outside their regular job. I have been extremely blessed in finding an amazing Committee who has gone above and beyond already.
We’d love to hear more about BUILD (Black Upcoming Individuals in Leadership & Development) –Our Mission is to serve as a BEACON of support, education and empowerment for Black employees at all levels by utilizing our diverse talents to educate, motivate and inspire each other to achieve higher levels of Senior Leadership experience, opportunities and Success.
This group is not limited to Black employees but is open and encouraged to anyone in our organization who supports our mission. We desire to cultivate Black leaders, foster inclusion and the advancement of black employees and transform the tech industry to reflect the diversity of its users.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We plan to: Offer professional development, networking and mentorship opportunities. Support business initiatives by providing and promoting cultural awareness insight. Provide a safe space for Black Employees to elevate their voices and develop their careers through a supportive network of allies across the company. Provide access and awareness to Leadership programs. Resources, conferences, education and training. Volunteer and sponsor events that align with our mission.
Contact Info:
- Email: build@ultimatesoftware.com
Image Credit:
Porsha Antalan
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