Mondelēz announces major diversity & inclusion program for its US business

Following extensive consultations between company leaders, colleagues and experts through listening forums and educational sessions focused on diversity, inclusion and belonging, the Oreo maker said it will double US black representation in management in the same time scale.

“Mondelēz International is committed to building a more diverse, inclusive and equitable world, both socially and economically​,” said Dirk Van de Put, chairman and CEO of Mondelēz International.

“As a global company, we know that diversity in all its forms is a driver of innovation and growth and we must reflect the diversity of our consumers to deliver stronger business performance as we lead the future of snacking​."

Racial equity

Over the next three years, the company will address local and global opportunities to advance racial equity and economic empowerment by expanding its D&I initiative across three key areas: Colleagues, Culture and Communities.

It has pledged to increase the presence of underrepresented candidates on interview slates, doubling investment in early career programs, including with 'historically black colleges and universities', and establishing new mentoring and leadership development programs for people of color.

The company said it will invest in building cultural competences for all employees and will include D&I performance metrics in business unit and functional goals. The company also plans to mobilize its consumer-facing brands and leverage its partnerships with agencies and advertising platforms to drive change, equity and inclusion.

Underrepresented communities

For underrepresented communities, the company said it will commit to spend $1bn with minority and women-owned businesses globally by 2024.

“In a world that can seem more divided than ever, our business and our brands have the power to bring people together and take a stand on this important issue​,” said Glen Walter, EVP & president, North America.

“We are confident that we can make a true and meaningful impact over the short and long term, and we will continue to evolve and refine our plans to ensure we are driving, positive, lasting and much-needed change on the issues of racial equity and inclusion​.”

Mondelēz said it will report its annual progress against the new initiatives in its Snacking Made Right Report, alongside other Purpose-focused activities and KPIs.