LGBT role models are hugely important but imposing boardroom quotas is not the way forward. That was the overall message from a panel discussion entitled ‘Engaging across the LGBT spectrum to drive business results.’

The discussion, entitled ‘Engaging across the LGBT spectrum to drive business results’, was one of the first events to take place as part of the Pride in London festival – which will culminate with the annual parade through London next Saturday (27 June).

The event’s hosting at Thomson Reuters coincided with the launch of a special Pride London version of the Thomson Reuters Convene app.

Addressing an audience of approximately 60 guests, the panel offered some of their own insights into LGBTI visibility in the workplace and ways to initiate change.

Amy Stanning, a Shared Services Director at Barclays and co-chair of its LGBT network, spoke about how she felt bisexual and transgender people continued to be under-represented: ‘The challenge is to create an environment where they can be out at work.

Jan-Coos Geesink, the MD, UKI Legal Solutions at Thomson Reuters, identified as a ‘friend’ of the LGBT network, and talked about the importance of recruiting straight allies. ‘When I look around my colleagues in the workplace, it’s very easy to be a passive supporter. Most of my colleagues will nod and say they’re supportive, but what are you really doing? This is where friends come in if you want change.’ Read More via Gay Star News