DRC Companies Dominate DiversityInc 2020 Top 50 Rankings

Dave Moore, Staff Writer

More than a fifth of the 50 companies most celebrated for their diversity in 2020 share a common thread: they belong to the Dallas Regional Chamber.

Twelve DRC member companies earned a spot on this year’s DiversityInc’s Top 50 rankings, which are generated by a data analysis of a 200-plus question survey that examines factors such as female representation in management, black and Latino advancement into management, and leadership accountability in promoting diversity and inclusion.

“It is really an honor to work for a company who values diversity and inclusion at its core,” said Robert Watson, General Manager of the Hilton Anatole Dallas. Hilton ranked No. 2 on DiversityInc’s 2020 list. “Hilton is consistently recognized as a top company for veterans, people with disabilities, LGBT community, and many more,” Watson said. “Our pursuit of inclusive programs and opportunities give all team members a sense of belonging. A global culture built around diversity and inclusion is one of the reasons I have been with Hilton 32 years, as well as team members celebrating 40+ years at Hilton Anatole and around the globe.”

Toyota Motor North America ranked No. 10 on the list – up eight spots from last year.

“When it comes to diversity and inclusion, each year we try to set new challenges and new goals with a plan for attaining them,” said TMNA Chief Diversity Officer and Chief Legal Officer Sandra Phillips Rogers. “This recognition gives us encouragement that we’re on the right path because we know it’s a journey, not a destination.”

Toyota attributes its growing reputation as a leader in diversity to its practice of inspiring, encouraging, and modeling diversity and inclusion throughout the organization. This practice applies to the company’s relationships both internally and externally.

Coming in at No. 13 – and making an appearance for 11 years running – is Target.

“From our products and services in stores or online, to the inclusive work environment we provide our team members, diversity and inclusion is at the heart of what we do,” said Laysha Ward, Executive Vice President and Chief Engagement Officer for Target. “Thanks to collective efforts supported by Target’s unique organizational ecosystem, the team continues to share accountability across the enterprise, helping everyone understand their unique role in driving diversity and inclusion.”

Boeing, No. 27 in the 2020 rankings, attributes its diversity of people and perspectives as key elements of its success.

“We are honored to share this recognition with so many outstanding organizations throughout the U.S. and within North Texas,” said Ted Colbert, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boeing Global Services. “Boeing’s strength has always been our people, and it is the diversity of our team that is essential to creating the amazing products and services for which Boeing is known around the world. With customers in more than 150 countries, the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our teams – and their ability to work together inclusively – are critical to our success.”

Other DRC members on DiversityInc’s 2020 list include:

      1. Accenture
      2. TIAA
      3. Wells Fargo
      4. KPMG
      5. Walmart
      6. Cigna
      7. HSBC
      8. Capital One Bank

Also in 2020, AT&T earned a place in the DiversityInc Hall of Fame, after receiving the No. 1 spot in the organization’s Top 50 list in 2019, and landing within the top 10 for several years preceding.

To be eligible for the list, participants must:

      • Have at least 1,000 U.S. employees;
      • Enter data via Qualtrics, an online survey tool;
      • Submit a notarized form signed by either the CEO, the Chief Human Resources Officer or a corporate officer (other than the chief diversity officer or person responsible for diversity and inclusion) affirming that all data submitted is accurate. All data considered for DiversityInc Top 50 rankings is U.S.-based; and
      • Complete NOD’s Disability Employment Tracker.