by Darralynn Hutson

Over the past couple years, as the #MeToo movement has taken hold, diversity and inclusion has been pushed to the forefront of industry conversations.

As a result, many companies have turned their attention toward the treatment as well as advancement of minority talent. Some have overhauled their D&I initiatives and introduced new campaigns in the wake of public controversy — and an increasing number have taken the added step of hiring dedicated diversity leaders to stem cultural issues muddying the workplace.

Here is a list of chief diversity officers and their responsibilities.

Condé Nast 

Condé Nast named Yashica Olden first-ever global chief diversity and inclusion officer where Yashica is responsible for developing and implementing diversity and inclusion strategies across the company’s global portfolio of brands and divisions.  Olden’s appointment started on October 26 reporting to Stan Duncan, chief people officer of Condé Nast.

Yashica Olden is Global Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Conde Nast Inc

Prada

Prada announced in February that artist and activist Theaster Gates and award-winning writer, director and producer Ava DuVernay will co-chair its Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council. The move came just two months after the brand faced backlash after many deemed that some of its animal-like figurines and charms in stores and store windows evoked blackface. “Prada is committed to cultivating, recruiting and retaining diverse talent to contribute to all departments of the company,” said Miuccia Prada, co-chief executive officer with her husband, Patrizio Bertelli, and lead creative director of the luxury brand.

Meredith

Meredith Corporation the leading brand-led multi-platform media company – announced that Diane L. Parker has been named Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, effective January 28. Parker will lead Meredith's diversity and inclusion initiatives and programming across all locations and businesses. She succeeds Shona Pinnock, who left Meredith in the fall of 2020 for a new opportunity. Parker will report to Senior Vice President of Human Resources Dina Nathanson.

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton Americas Appoints a Vice President Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Shona Pinnock joins Louis Vuitton with 20 years of experience in various industries including publishing, real estate and legal. Having started her career in Talent Acquisition and Employee Relations, Shona joined Consumer Reports as HR Director and Head of Diversity. Under her leadership the organization was named "Most Committed to Diversity and Inclusion," by Digiday. In her latest role, Shona was Head of D&I at the Meredith Corporation.

In her new role Shona will lead Louis Vuitton Americas’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy and vision across our Retail, Workshops, Client Services and Corporate teams.