Ensuring processes and procedures are fair and equitable
We are dedicated to continuous learning and constant improvement
We are committed to developing both individual and team excellence and have established DEI policies, training, and measurement procedures to accomplish this important task. Our suite of internal development programs is aimed at finding new and impactful ways to increase awareness, thoughtfulness, and improvement.
HarbourVest DEI training initiatives
Global Respectful Workplace
Required review of our Global Respectful Workplace Policy which was adopted to formalize the standards of behavior we expect from each other to ensure all members of the HarbourVest community are treated with respect and dignity. Training includes in-depth exploration of these values and how to practically implement them in the workplace.
Conscious Inclusion
Required training designed to help our team explore the impact of conscious and unconscious bias, consider the science behind these phenomena, and build awareness of their own reactions to daily events. During each session, participants work together to identify actions that foster inclusive behavior in the workplace and our communities.
Talent Selection
Three-hour training sessions to examine best practices for eliminating bias throughout the hiring process. Real-life scenarios focus on behavioral interviewing and provide hiring managers with a toolkit to successfully navigate a full recruiting cycle.
Real Talk
Group training designed to equip leaders with the necessary tools for encouraging and engaging in conversations about global racial and social issues. Topics include “Managing Inclusion,” a follow-on to Conscious Inclusion training with the goal of helping managers manage in a more inclusive way.
Identiversity
Live training also recorded for self-service intended to engage employees in fostering an inclusive workplace by improving our knowledge of LGBTQ+ identities. Centered on the basic building blocks that are part of all our identities to encourage continued learning to help us further cultivate awareness and inclusivity through education.
Harvard ManageMentor
Self-directed learning program with interactive exercises to help employees prepare for real-world challenges, expert commentary and real-life examples from Harvard Business School faculty and business leaders, and downloadable tools and templates all designed to help employees build, broaden, and refresh their skills for success. Courses include Attracting and Cultivating Talent; Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging; and Global Collaboration.
Embracing diverse perspectives
Our ability to drive meaningful change is directly linked to finding ways to educate ourselves and increase awareness in thoughtful ways. With this in mind, we launched our internal Perspectives Speaker Series in April 2021, introducing employees to a more diverse set of viewpoints around topics including racial injustice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and gender equality.
Wol Kolade, Managing Partner of Livingbridge and developer of #10000BlackInterns, joined us for a conversation on his experiences in the private equity industry and his organization’s work to increase Black representation in the investment management industry in the UK.
Jim Park, CEO, highlighted initiatives focused on creating programs to help provide opportunities for Asian American and Pacific Islander industry professionals, and to support activism on policy changes.
CEO Amy Kadomatsu shared how she prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in her role as well as her experiences as a Japanese American woman in the workforce.
Bryan Stevenson, founder and Executive Director, and author of the book Just Mercy, shared his personal experiences and what inspired him to dedicate his life to challenging racial and economic injustice.
CEO Pam Jackson joined us for a conversation on increasing gender diversity in private equity, as well as efforts to attract, develop, and retain diverse talent in the industry.
Jada Alexander, Program Manager, discussed connecting driven and determined local students from historically underrepresented groups with opportunities to thrive in college and in life.
Dr. Kerri Greenidge, Resident Historian, joined us for a conversation on preserving and interpreting the contributions of African Americans throughout history.
Robert Greene, President & CEO, joined us for a conversation on increasing education and advocacy for emerging and diverse investment managers.
President & Executive Director Lyndia Downie from the Boston-based organization helped us better understand the realities and hopes of those struggling with homelessness in our communities.
John Basile, President & founding member, discussed the importance of amplifying LGBTQ+ and allied voices to support thriving workplace cultures.
William Goodloe, President & CEO, and Julian Johnson, Executive Vice President, shared how his organization works to create innovative education and mentorship opportunities for students from underrepresented communities as a means to turn untapped potential into newfound greatness.