The IPA, in partnership with Unilever, has launched the iList, a free initiative to showcase and celebrate role models who are driving inclusivity in adland.
The iList will galvanise the industry into becoming a more inclusive, diverse place to work and will highlight the many game-changers who are shifting the culture within advertising and marketing.
Entries to the iList are open to all agency employees – at any level – who are championing inclusivity within their agency and/or within the work they are producing.
Their submissions will be assessed, and the successful shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a panel of industry greats, led by Karen Blackett OBE. The final iList will be announced at a celebratory gala in May and feature in Campaign magazine, the iList’s media partner.
Says Leila Siddiqi, Head of Diversity, IPA: “Advertising is becoming more inclusive within both the workplace and in the work we are producing, however, progress is slow. That is why we’ve launched the iList to shine a light on the importance and benefits of inclusive leadership and culture to inspire others to take up the charge.
“Beyond the list itself, the iList is a longer term programme aimed to support, celebrate and inspire adland to reach the IPA’s diversity targets by providing tangible outputs and guidance for agencies looking to make their workplace more inclusive.”
Says Aline Santos, EVP Global Marketing and Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Unilever: “We’re proud to partner with the IPA on the iList. Advertising is about making human connections and that must always start with the foundations of diversity and inclusion. Diversity is on the agenda for many companies, but inclusion is what helps teams thrive and brings out the true benefits of diversity.
“The iList seeks to recognise the individuals who are taking an authentic approach and prioritising inclusion, along with diversity, as part of their overall business strategy. Our hope is that the winners and their stories will inspire leadership across agencies and other media and communication companies to step up.”
Says Claire Beale, Global Editor-in-Chief. Campaign: “Diversity must absolutely be underpinned by an inclusive mindset that nurtures, supports and promotes that diversity. The people driving and inspiring inclusive cultures are the architects of our future success and Campaign is really proud to be the media partner helping to champion and celebrate those people.”
Says Karen Blackett OBE, WPP UK Country Manager & MediaCom Chairwoman UK & Ireland and iList Chair of Judges: “Diversity is not a problem to fix, but the solution to creativity, business growth and future proofing our industry. We need to do so much more to represent the consumers of Modern Britain in the industry that we love.”
