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Meet Margot Slattery the Global Head of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DIB) at ISS. She is a distinguished leader with a proven ability to deliver growth and success in highly competitive and complex environments. With over three decades of experience in the business world, Margot has an impressive record of leading, coaching, developing, and motivating diverse teams through periods of transformation and change, resulting in profitable growth.
A Beginning Inspired by Equality and Transparency
Margot was motivated to join ISS because of its legacy and commitment to fairness and equality. She was inspired by a leadership team and board dedicated to creating meaningful change and making a difference for its employees. ❝I am very passionate about human rights and equity, and at ISS, I feel at home expressing these values and making an impact, shares Margot. We are committed to a culture where our people are empowered to achieve their full potential, feel comfortable being their whole selves, and celebrate for who they are❞
Inclusion is at the heart of ISS’s approach, ensuring that the team’s daily activities support this culture of belonging where individuality is embraced, diversity is celebrated, and inclusion is valued. An inclusive workplace is beneficial because it leverages diverse perspectives to improve outcomes for the teams, clients, and society. That’s why belonging is central to the company’s strategy. ISS strives to create moments that matter for people, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported for who they are and that they truly belong.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at ISS
ISS stands out from others because diversity and inclusion have been central to the business for over 120 years. This commitment is not a temporary trend or a checkbox exercise; instead, it reflects the leadership and growth strategy focused on enhancing people’s opportunities. Currently, over 320,000 individuals are employed by ISS, and they have a very clear focus on making meaningful and impactful change. Margot aims to engage with people worldwide to drive social mobility and provide opportunities for a better life, which includes access to education, stable housing, and a sense of hope and ambition. They achieve this by implementing better wages and educational opportunities, which directly improve an individual’s financial status and mobility.
Key Strategies to Empower and Engage Leaders and Employees
Margot emphasizes that an effective way to address resistance is through leadership support, which involves having leadership actively engaged and committed to cultural change. This commitment should be demonstrated through a focus on social value, impact, and tangible outcomes. At ISS, the dedication to Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DIB) starts at the highest level, with the board of directors and CEO leading the charge. The Chief People Officer oversees the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda and DIB initiatives. This work is further enriched by the active participation of executive leaders throughout the company, who sponsor five global voluntary ERG groups. The strategy is reinforced by committee governance and country leads, who ensure effective execution and continuous improvement of the DIB initiatives. In this way, leadership is not only involved in the movement but is also setting the standards for others to follow.
From Chef to Global DEI Leader: Significant Experiences and Turning Points
Margot’s experiences have been significantly shaped by the human condition, particularly by issues of discrimination and inequality. These factors drive her to advocate for fairness and to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity. Growing up in rural Ireland, she witnessed a great deal of inequality, which fueled her belief that things could be better. She has always refused to settle for the passive role, metaphorically refusing to take the back seat of the bus. Inspired by those who came before her and by incredible civil rights activists from around the world, she continues to be motivated by their legacy today.
The Secret behind Achieving a Wonderful Balance
Margot believes that the concept of balance is unrealistic. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of immersing oneself in things that truly matter. This includes reading and listening extensively, staying politically active, engaging socially, and nurturing strong relationships and friendships. She values joy, exercise, and fun in life, advocating for not taking everything too seriously and ensuring to prioritize personal well-being, like putting on your oxygen mask first.
The Notable Transition from Chef to Management
Margot explains the main factor motivating her transition was the realization that there was more for her to achieve. Her strong ambition and self-awareness, combined with the wonderful support of his family and others, encouraged her to embrace new opportunities. She emphasized the importance of never being afraid to take a chance and trying something new, advising others not to let the sand get on their feet!
Challenges of DEI Leaders in Multicultural and Multigenerational Workplaces
For Margot, the biggest challenge in working within a multicultural and multigenerational workplace is ensuring that employees remain engaged and aware of the issues at hand. They mustn’t get sidetracked by the detractors, those who prefer a less inclusive world. Society is undergoing significant transitions, and many individuals are resistant to change, clinging to ways of the past instead of embracing a wider perspective. DEI leaders must stay strong and resilient and take good care of themselves in doing this
The Future of DEI at ISS: Adapting to Global Changes and Increasing Social Responsibility
According to Margot, ISS is committed to creating a meaningful impact that improves the lives of others. As a growth-oriented company, ISS aims to incorporate even more social value into its employee value proposition.
Words of Wisdom for Young Professionals: Building an Inclusive World
Margot believes it is an action that drives change, sometimes collective, sometimes individual. Most importantly, it is about getting up and doing something, having your say, or finding a way to be heard if you can’t speak out directly. She advises being discerning about whom you listen to and using democracy wisely. It is crucial to remember that rights can be easily eroded and must be actively defended and exercised. In all their interactions, we must remember that we are all humans and should treat others as we wish to be treated. The workplace presents a significant opportunity for change, a chance to promote the common good, and a platform to have your voice heard. So speak up and be brave. We need new Avengers.
