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It is no accident that diverse and inclusive companies succeed. Companies that draw upon diverse backgrounds and experiences, as well as embrace a wide range of thought processes, are poised to forge better business relationships with increasingly diverse groups of customers, suppliers and employees in the global economy. We see diversity as a business priority and opportunity.
That’s why I formed AGL Resources’ first Diversity Council in October 2006. Its purpose is to help ensure a more inclusive and welcoming workplace, and to improve recruitment, retention and advancement of valued and experienced employees.
As chair, I am determined that our Diversity Council remains a viable working body. It is not a top-down initiative that says, “Here’s what we think the issues are and here’s how it will be.” Instead, the council is set up to work across, as well as up and down the company, receiving – and expecting – feedback and involvement at all levels of the organization.
Serving with me on AGL Resources’ Diversity Council are:
- Ralph Cleveland, senior vice president, Engineering and Operations
- Myra Coleman Bierria, vice president, corporate secretary and securities counsel
- Drew Evans, executive vice president and chief financial officer
- Jodi Gidley, senior vice president, Mid-Atlantic Operations
- Hank Linginfelter, executive vice president, Utility Operations
- Kevin Madden, executive vice president, External Affairs
- Melanie Platt, senior vice president, Human Resources
- Doug Schantz, president, Sequent Energy Management
- Paul Shlanta, executive vice president and general counsel
- Suzanne Sitherwood, senior vice president, Southern Operations
To ensure that employees at all locations and positions have a voice, five Diversity Sub-councils were formed in May 2007. These teams of employees are playing an important role as we strive to live up to our commitment to diversity and achieve our diversity goals. Each of the five sub-councils is focused on a specific aspect of our business.
Sub-council Teams:
- Internal/External Recruitment/Staffing
- Training and Development
- Performance Management
- Succession Planning and Career Pathing
- Culture and Communications
Employees serving on these sub-councils are helping us create a more inclusive and welcoming workplace. Respecting and using the diversity of our experiences, backgrounds, ages and more, will make our great company an even better place to work.
John Somerhalder
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
AGL Resources
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