The initiative was launched as part of a “Third Reconstruction” Proposed by Operation HOPE CEO John Hope Bryant
ATLANTA, July 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Operation HOPE today announced the formal launch of The Corporate Inclusion Initiative, which aims to level the representational playing field of corporate America by placing well-qualified minority candidates on company boards of directors, ensuring that the boardrooms reflect the ethnic and gender makeup of the country.
Originally announced as part of a “Third Reconstruction” in the Milken Institute Review, the initiative was designed to develop a roster of highly qualified candidates who could be recommended or placed in executive leadership roles for which they were highly suited. The initiative now boasts a confidential roster of nearly 50 candidates representing a broad spectrum of executive experience and backgrounds.
According to the Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance, as of 2022, only 22.2% of Fortune 500 corporate board seats were held by individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. While this is up from 17.5% in 2020, this percentage lags well behind the demographic makeup of the United States.
By recommending and placing well-qualified candidates from underrepresented ethnic and racial backgrounds on boards of directors, we ensure that the most influential companies and their decision-making are reflective and aware of our country’s diversity – when all voices have a seat at the table, everyone benefits.
How it works:
- High-profile members of the Operation HOPE network and community recommend candidates from a wide variety of industries and backgrounds.
- After rigorous vetting by the Corporate Inclusion team and review by leadership, the candidates are added to the program.
- When necessary or beneficial, candidates are given executive coaching and direction on improving their suitability for board service.
- As placement opportunities become available, candidates are recommended for roles in which they are both prepared and well-suited.
- Corporate Inclusion serves as a catalyst for placement and an objective advisor to both the candidates and the placement organization, facilitating and assisting as needed.