Business consulting and IT services firm NTT Data UK and Ireland has appointed Clare Stephens as its new vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
Driving forward all of NTT Data’s DEI campaigns and initiatives, Stephens will build on the momentum of the existing programmes, as well as create new and innovative projects to make the IT and technology services industry more equitable. She joins the business’ leadership team, feeding into all activity to ensure DEI is a central focus in all organisational decisions.
Prior to joining the firm, Stephens held a variety of HR leadership roles at IT and technology services provider IBM including diversity and inclusion leader for the Europe, Middle East Africa region, a role she held since 2017. She led on a wide variety of inclusion initiatives to attract, retain, and develop diverse talent, such as increasing the number of women in leadership, flexible working initiatives and mentoring programmes.
Stephens said: “I was blown away by the talent at NTT Data, the passion of the communities and the leadership team’s authentic dedication to making it a truly inclusive place to work. The commitment from Fernando and his team to make DEI central to business success tells me everything about how committed the organisation is to its people and its future growth. I’m delighted to have been given the fantastic opportunity to drive forward NTT Data’s mission to make the organisation, and the industry as a whole, a more equitable and inclusive place for everyone.”
Fernando Apezteguia, chief executive officer of NTT Data UK and Ireland, added: “Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is something that is very close to my heart and it’s something that is key to a successful business. [Stephens] brings with her the exact kind of energy and dedication we were looking for in this role. We’re all very pleased to welcome her on board and look forward to building new campaigns and initiatives together, as well as evolving everything we do.”