Equality, diversity and inclusion champions
Learn about inspiring individuals at the School for Business and Society, who are changing the academic landscape by raising awareness of differing life experiences.
Our EDI champions
David Rowe
Lecturer in Marketing, Co-head of Group for People, Operations and Marketing
As a first-generation academic, openly bisexual man with dyslexia, my lived experiences inside and outside academia drive my passion for LGBTQ+, social class, and neurodiversity issues.
Beyond specific categories, I recognise the universal importance of inclusivity. My dedication stems from a sincere commitment to promoting understanding and inclusivity in every aspect of working life.
Fabien Baugard
Careers Consultant
As the first child in my family to attend university, I have always had a strong sense of social justice and a strong belief in social mobility.
In the School, I have been involved in Widening Participation contributing to the work to gain Athena Swan Bronze, and more recently developed the Institute of Directors' mentoring programme aimed especially at final year students from underrepresented groups.
Anna Ainley
Undergraduate Student Services
I joined the EDI committee because I have a keen interest in wellbeing, supporting a healthy work/life balance and staff development. I am also part of the Central Equality Champions Network, where departments get together to discuss their individual EDI activities.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on EDI activities within SBS and any suggestions for the department you may have.
Emily Hampton
Undergraduate Student Services
I have a personal passion for promoting staff and student wellbeing and fostering an inclusive work environment which offers staff development opportunities for all.
My experience as a EDI Champion has been an extremely positive one and I have enjoyed working with the other EDI Champions to create and work on the EDI Strategy for the School.
Ali Naqvi
Lecturer, Programme Lead of MSc Management and York MBA (online)
I have a deep personal history of being engaged with issues of social justice and social change, none more so than my deep connection with South Africa and the civil rights movement there.
My experience there, along with an international business career steeped in working with different cultures from all over the world, influences my commitment to see EDI go beyond its boundaries and be utterly inclusive of all our communities from all perspectives.
Chidozie Umeh
Assistant Professor of Human Resource Management
My particular interest lies in examining organisational behaviour and management practices that enable or constrain fairness and their impact on sustainable development and social inequalities.
With over a decade of industry experience, research, and advocacy initiatives, I have developed the knowledge and skills required to address complex issues surrounding social inequalities in management practices. As an EDI champion, my goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.
Juliet Kele
Lecturer in Human Resource Management
I have an immense passion to promote and support inclusion and social justice for all. Both my research and teaching are informed by an inclusive and intersectional lens. In my role, I hope to contribute positively to the School, to create an environment in which both students and staff feel valued, respected and included.
I hope that our EDI Forum, celebrating EDI calendar events throughout the year, will provide a positive space to inform and learn from each other’s lived experiences, which is key to enacting long-term effective and sustainable change.
