Business
The following conversation is with a true pioneer, Rafael Fantauzzi, Country Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Officer for IKEA US. This episode highlights the important work he and his company are doing to create a fully inclusive work environment, contributing to a positive change in all areas of its business and in society. We discuss their limited edition rainbow shopping bag that celebrates LGBT Pride month with all proceeds benefitting the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Rafael is a true change agent, who believes the most important step in creating positive change must start internally, with your most critical audience – the people that represent your brand. We believe IKEA’s continued commitment to human rights and the way they lead the industry with inclusive benefits for their employees and their families is work all brands can learn from and start implementing. Rafael has held positions with iconic brands such as American Airlines, Coors Brewing Company and the National Puerto Rican Coalition (NPRC) over the course of his career. He held a variety of roles in sales, sales support and analytics early in his career before being promoted to management roles such as Manager for U.S. Hispanic National Organizations/Promotions, Director of the Corporate Relations and President and Chief Executive Officer, where he was responsible for developing and integrating high impact diversity and inclusion strategic initiatives. In July 2017, Rafael accepted the new position of Country Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Officer at IKEA U.S. In his new role, he is responsible for anchoring the IKEA Global D&I Approach, build organizational competency, develop workplace inclusion alliances, and assist 50 retail units, 10 Distribution Centers, and 2 corporate offices with all People & Culture needs. In addition, he is part of the INGKA Global ED&I Network which includes representatives from all IKEA countries. Rafael has served as a Founding Member of the News Corporation Diversity Advisory Council, Board Member at the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR), and Board Member for the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). To learn more about IKEA, visit ikea.com. To learn more about InnerView or to obtain a transcript, please go to innerviewgroup.com. Make sure you subscribe to get the latest episodes.