Deloitte, the prominent member of the Big Four firms, finds itself at a crossroads regarding its DEI initiatives.
Changes in the US Division
Deloitte US has recently implemented a series of modifications to its DEI practices, as revealed in internal communications obtained by Business Insider. These changes stem from a thorough examination of "relevant government directives," as stated by Deloitte.
Shift in Strategy
The global professional services giant, Deloitte, has decided to scale back its diversity programs in the United States, aligning itself with the increasing number of companies adjusting their policies during the early stages of the Trump administration.
Policy Sunset
Doug Beaudoin, the Chief People Officer at Deloitte, communicated to employees via email that the firm would be phasing out its workforce and business diversity goals, its DEI Transparency report, and DEI programming. This move comes after a comprehensive review of applicable government directives to ensure compliance both as a private entity and a government contractor, in line with industry standards.
Emphasis on Inclusivity
In the email, Beaudoin underscored in bold text that "Everyone is welcome at Deloitte," emphasizing the company's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
UK Branch Stance
Contrary to the US division, Deloitte UK expressed its dedication to diversity objectives, affirming its intention to provide annual reports on inclusion progress. Richard Houston, the Senior Partner and Chief Executive of Deloitte UK, assured employees that the firm remains focused on cultivating an inclusive culture and supporting the professional growth of all individuals.
Response to US Changes
Addressing the alterations in DEI programs in Deloitte US, Houston conveyed to the UK workforce that the adjustments were made to uphold compliance with federal regulations, in light of recent executive orders.
Political Landscape Impact
The decision to revamp DEI practices at Deloitte aligns with the evolving political landscape, notably influenced by directives from the Trump administration regarding diversity programs across federal entities and contractors.
Industry Trends
Deloitte's strategic shift mirrors similar actions taken by other companies, such as Meta, Walmart, and Target, as they reassess their DEI strategies in response to changing regulatory environments.
If you are part of Deloitte and wish to share insights on these developments, reach out to this reporter at pthompson@businessinsider.com or on Signal at Polly_Thompson.89, with confidentiality assured.
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By: pthompson@insider.com (Polly Thompson)
Title: Deloitte’s Divergent Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/deloitte-big-four-split-over-dei-trump-rollback-2025-2
Published Date: Wed, 12 Feb 2025 11:34:46 +0000
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