Our Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs) bring colleagues together around shared experiences, interests and identities, creating communities where people can connect, learn from one another and help build a more inclusive workplace. Our BERGs are open to everyone, whether you identify with the community or want to join as an ally.

Each BERG has executive-level sponsorship and Co-Leads from across the business, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Although each BERG has its own area of focus, they work together as allies and alongside colleagues across the globe to support all aspects of diversity and inclusion.

Kerstin

Project Coordinator and Team Administrator

Pride Network (LGBTQ+ BERG)

Tell us about your role within the BERG and how it contributes to creating amore inclusive, high performing workplace

As one of the four Co-Leads of the PRIDE Network, I help create opportunities for colleagues to learn from one another, challenge assumptions and build meaningful connections.

My goal is to make inclusion practical and relevant to everyday work, so that people feel comfortable being themselves and bringing their unique perspectives to the table.

When that happens, we create stronger relationships, better collaboration, and a higher-performing workplace for everyone.

What encouraged you to become part of the Pride Network, and why is LGBTQ+ inclusion important in today's workplace?​

What encouraged me to become part of the Pride Network was my belief that people are at their best when they feel safe, respected and able to be themselves.​

Throughout my life and career, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by people from different backgrounds, cultures and experiences, including family members and friends who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.

For me, LGBTQ+ inclusion is about understanding that we all experience the world differently.

We may not always share the same perspectives, but we can choose to listen, learn and treat each other with respect.

When people feel heard, valued, and included, they are more confident to contribute, collaborate, and bring their best ideas forward.

That creates stronger teams, better decision-making, and ultimately a higher-performing workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

How has Imperial Brands supported the Pride Network in creating an environment where colleagues can thrive and perform at their best?

Imperial Brands has supported the Pride Network by providing visible leadership sponsorship, creating opportunities for colleagues to learn and connect and embedding inclusion into broader business conversations.

Through campaigns, events, our allyship programme and local initiatives, the organisation has enabled the network to reach both online and offline colleagues, helping create an environment where people feel valued, respected and able to contribute their best.

Importantly, Imperial has recognised that inclusion is not separate from performance. By encouraging open dialogue, allyship and belonging, the business continues to strengthen collaboration, engagement and the conditions for people to thrive.​

Demetrius

Manager Advocacy & Local Affairs

We Are One (Ethnicity BERG)

Demetrius shares what being part of We Are One means to him and the importance of creating a workplace where people from different cultures, backgrounds and experiences feel a sense of belonging. He reflects on how connection, understanding and allyship can help bring people together.

Rachael

Corporate Affairs Manager

Gender BERG

Rachael shares her perspective on the importance of creating opportunities for everyone to thrive, while building a workplace where different experiences and perspectives are valued. She talks about the role we can all play in supporting a more inclusive culture.

Mariette

Total Rewards and Payroll Lead

DiverseABILITY

Mariette shares her perspective on the importance of creating an inclusive workplace where people can bring their strengths, experiences and perspectives to work.