Q&A with the Executive Sponsor of the Within network

Our Chief People Officer, Sophie Smith has taken on the role of Executive Sponsor for the Within network at Compass Group UK & Ireland. 

Sophie joined Compass earlier this year. Her role encompasses leading our people agenda and continuing work to progress and deliver the company’s ‘Our Social Promise’, which supports people internally and from outside the organisation.

As we celebrate Black History Month this October, we spoke with Sophie about the network and why it’s so important.

Tell us about the Within network.  

Our Within network is a colleague community that embraces and promotes cultural diversity. Through the network, members have the opportunity to connect with others from different cultures and religions, share experiences, and learn.

The main aim of the network is to promote cultural diversity in our work environment; raise awareness about diversity and strive to build a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Core to this is listening to make progress.

We all have unique strengths, challenges and traditions, and it is through networks like Within where we can come together, discuss and help to make the world a better place.

What is your role for Within?

I’m the Executive Sponsor for Within, supporting and advocating for this important community, as well as representing the network at a senior level to ensure the messages are shared throughout the business.

Part of my role as Chief People Officer is to help Compass and the people in it to create an environment where everyone can be themselves and thrive. Part of this is understanding the challenges faced by some in terms of reaching their full career potential and considering ways to overcome barriers.

Why is Within so important?

We’re all at our best when we feel valued, respected, heard and seen. This network is important as it raises awareness within the business of any issues and challenges our colleagues may come across, plus it enables us to share experiences and learn from each other.

What sort of activities does the network take part in?

Activities include celebrating cultural events, training and initiatives aimed at raising awareness and education, with a focus on supporting positive change.

It’s brilliant seeing how our network marks different cultures and events throughout the year. We often have special menus in place for religious occasions, host webinars and share information and resources.

What is next for Within?

As it’s October, we’re currently celebrating Black History Month, which provides a powerful reminder to recognise the incredible achievements, resilience and culture of Black people and colleagues, past, present and future. Amongst the busy month of activities, we hosted an event to mark the occasion, plus held an internal InclusiviTEA.

What change would you like to see to advance Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging?

We have six networks and I think that by uniting around shared goals, we can drive even more meaningful change and continue to build a culture of belonging.