Dr. Vinika Rao, Executive Director, INSEAD Africa Initiative & Hoffmann Institute for Business
- Dr. Vinika Rao has extensive experience in academia, holding positions such as Executive Director of INSEAD’s Africa Initiative and the Hoffman Institute for Business and Society in Asia.
- She serves on multiple boards and advisory boards, showcasing her
Podcast
Overview
In this episode of “The Brand Called You” vodcast and podcast, the host interviews Dr. Vinika Rao, an accomplished professional from academia based in Singapore, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Dr. Rao shares her journey from a corporate career to academia, emphasizing the importance of embracing change and finding one’s calling. She discusses the evolving concept of DEI and the challenges faced by companies in implementing DEI strategies, highlighting the need for specificity, accountability, and disclosure. Dr. Rao addresses common misconceptions about DEI, emphasizing the importance of cognitive diversity and inclusion. She explains how gender diversity in leadership positively impacts organizational performance and delves into the intersectionality of diversity in the workplace. Dr. Rao suggests actionable steps for companies to create a more inclusive culture, focusing on the concept of allyship. She discusses leveraging technology for DEI initiatives while being mindful of its potential negative impacts.
00:33- About Dr. Vinika Rao
- Dr. Vinika Rao has extensive experience in academia, holding positions such as Executive Director of INSEAD’s Africa Initiative and the Hoffman Institute for Business and Society in Asia.
- She serves on multiple boards and advisory boards, showcasing her commitment to driving impactful change in various organizations and sectors.
- Dr. Rao’s journey reflects a transition from a successful corporate career to academia, where she found her calling in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace.
13:45- How does gender diversity in leadership, impact organizational performance?
- Inclusion and belonging are key factors that drive positive outcomes such as innovation, creativity, and productivity within organizations.
- Gender diversity, equity, and inclusion have a significant impact on performance and the bottom line, as supported by research from academic scholars and practitioners.
- The phenomenon of women dropping off the corporate ladder, particularly at crucial career stages, highlights the importance of addressing challenges related to family formation and providing support to prevent such obstacles from becoming insurmountable.
22:44- What advice would you give to young professionals who want to champion DEI in their organizations?
- Recognise that as a young professional, you have the power to shape the future. Embrace your role in driving positive change within your organization and beyond.
- Understand that today’s business leaders are expected to go beyond traditional business matters. They are expected to have a voice, express their views, and actively engage in addressing social issues.
- Utilize the principles of allyship to create impact. Listen attentively to diverse perspectives, actively engage with others, and collaborate with stakeholders to support marginalized groups.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Dr. Vinika Rao: LinkedIn
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Profile
- Dr. Vinika Rao has extensive experience in academia, holding positions such as Executive Director of INSEAD’s Africa Initiative and the Hoffman Institute for Business and Society in Asia.
- She serves on multiple boards and advisory boards, showcasing her commitment to driving impactful change in various organizations and sectors.
- Dr. Rao’s journey reflects a transition from a successful corporate career to academia, where she found her calling in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace.
