How can we prepare the next generation of leaders to accelerate progress towards equality?
Preparing future leaders to champion equality requires more than policies and good intentions – it demands structured, proactive efforts that provide the tools, learning opportunities, and workplace culture to support their growth. At BDO Ireland, we implement key initiatives that foster inclusion, leadership development, and long-term progress. These include:
What steps can organisations take to ensure a more inclusive and supportive work environment?
Developing an inclusive work environment starts with understanding the needs of the team and fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and supported. Implementing family-friendly policies and offering flexible working options helps individuals balance professional and personal responsibilities, contributing to a healthier and more engaged workforce. Educating employees about unconscious biases can lead to more equitable decision-making in hiring, promotions, and daily interactions. Awareness programmes help create an inclusive culture where diverse talents are recognised and celebrated. Additionally, mentorship & sponsorship initiatives provide guidance, build confidence, and help navigate career pathways. Overall, we need to keep an open dialogue and adapt to the changes within our teams to ensure our workplace is more inclusive and supportive.
In what ways can businesses measure and hold themselves accountable for diversity and inclusion?
Setting specific, measurable goals for diversity in leadership positions really does drive accountability and delivers an action plan. The Gender Pay Gap reporting requirement, for example, has been a useful tool to highlight disparities and provide a framework for bridging the gap.
Beyond internal measures, participating in industry groups allows businesses to share experiences, learn best practices, and contribute to broader progress in diversity and inclusion. Ultimately, holding organisations accountable fosters transparency, strengthens commitment, and ensures DEI efforts lead to long-term, sustainable change.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their career at BDO?
“Be Curious!” – this mindset is really important at every stage, but especially when starting out in BDO. Understanding and knowing not just your own team but also the wider firm - our services, the different sectors, and the type of clients we serve – can open unexpected opportunities. This can be achieved through networking with your peers, collaborating with other departments and attending firm-wide events. BDO's global network offers extensive opportunities for you to develop your career and your network, so get involved & enjoy!
What role does BDO’s leadership play in fostering inclusivity, and how can they further their impact?
BDO’s leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity by setting the tone from the top. This involves leading by example and driving meaningful action. It’s not enough just to have Inclusive policies and Learning & Development programmes. True change comes when we, as leaders, actively engage, lead by example, and embed inclusivity across hiring, promotions, and professional development. Our global motto is “People helping People”, so we want to foster a deeper understanding and create an environment where employees feel safe to express their ideas, thereby leading to a more innovative and inclusive workplace.