Compass colleagues unite for National Inclusion Week

More than 120 colleagues from across Compass Group UK & Ireland, the UK’s largest food and support services company, came together to celebrate National Inclusion Week (15-21 September) at its ‘Inclusioneers @ Compass’ event, held yesterday.

The day was an opportunity to further showcase the great work of Compass’ six employee networks, while also looking at how Compass continues to create a workplace where every person has a sense of belonging – regardless of their background – and feels valued, supported, and inspired. Representatives from each network took part in a panel discussion, using the event to provide specific insights into their purpose and share future plans.

Former England cricketer and BBC Test Match Special and Sky Sports commentator, Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE acted as MC for the day. Members of Compass’ Executive team, who are Executive Sponsors for the employee networks, also shared their personal stories and reflections around inclusion. Karl Atkins, CEO, Foodbuy Group, Executive Sponsor for You Matter; Morag Freathy, CEO, B&I – Compass Group UK&I and Michelle Sanders, Chief Growth Officer, Compass UK&I, who are joint Executive Sponsors for Pride in Food; plus Mark Webster, CEO, Compass One and Executive Sponsor for the Armed Forces Network, talked about why belonging matters to them and how they act to support it within the business.

The keynote presentation was delivered from globally recognised Executive Coach, René Carayol MBE. He covered how leadership drives inclusion and how to energise people towards a collective vision.

British wheelchair rugby player and gold medal-winning Paralympian, Aaron Phipps MBE also attended in his role with Compass’ Ability network. Garry Clarke-Strange, Founder of Think Inclusion Consulting talked about power and privilege. Robin Mills, Compass Group UK&I, CEO, closed the event recognising employees for their inclusion work and wrapped up with key takeaways and reflections.

René Carayol commented: “From the minute I arrived - the energy, the positivity, the optimism, the desire to get stuck in and make Compass a place for everyone - you can’t miss it!

Compass has six brave, courageous networks that extend their work across the organisation. What those six networks do is ensure that everyone is ‘in’ and has the opportunity to be included. I love what they’re doing!”

Sophie Smith, Chief People Officer at Compass Group UK & Ireland said: “Inclusion is such a fundamental part of Compass, this event has been a fantastic opportunity to bring it all to life. Today has given us the platform to share experiences, successes and discuss where we can still do more.

“The theme for National Inclusion Week this year has been ‘Now is the Time’ - a present and everyday imperative. I am so proud that we keep pushing forward, breaking down barriers to make sure every person has opportunity, feels valued and enabled to thrive.”

The Inclusioneers @ Compass event was part of a busy National Inclusion Week at Compass. Activities ranged from internal 'InclusiviTEA' events, webinars and the launch of a series of network podcasts. Colleagues also shared their commitments in how to support and future proof an inclusive environment.

Inclusion is a key part of Compass’ initiative, Our Social Promise, which includes the Mission to a Million commitment.