SUPPLIER DIVERSITY
overlooked , but they also gain a real competitive edge by harnessing the strengths of neurodivergent employees .”
Speaking at Sustainability LIVE , Felizitas Lichtenberg , Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion , Wellbeing and Sustainability at SumUp , also highlighted the importance of leadership in driving inclusion : “ It ’ s important to have leadership support and visibility – and our founders are super in favour of diversity and really supportive .”
She added : “ What we ’ re trying to do is also understand the data . We have to ask , what is our representation ? What is the census ? Where are our gaps in understanding if we are biased or not ? Are we missing some talent opportunities here ?” Asking these questions is an important part of any inclusive supply chain management strategy , but – according to Kelly and Felizitas – should be paired with active engagement with employee experiences .
“ I also think it ’ s super important to listen to our people ,” says Felizitas . “ And then in order to increase productivity again , we have to speak about racism , speak about neurodiversity , about domestic violence and abuse , LGBTQ + issues and , of course , mental health .”
Beyond ethics , embracing diversity has clear business benefits .
Kelly points out that companies which support neurodivergent employees often see improvements in retention , engagement and productivity . Many neurodivergent individuals excel in roles requiring pattern recognition ,
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