2022 Employer Council of Champions Summit and Awards

Inclusive Leadership in a Time of Change

On May 26, 2022, the 15th Annual Employers’ Summit engaged senior executives, civic leaders, human resources professionals and stakeholders from private, public and non-profit sectors in a discussion on the theme “Inclusive Leadership in a Time of Change.” Speakers and experts shared their insights and experiences about how their workplaces and businesses were addressing the challenges and opportunities of fostering inclusive workplaces during the pandemic. Two local employers were recognized with the 2022 Employer Excellence Awards.

Keynote Address – Inclusive Leadership-Leading by Example

In a heartfelt and inspirational address, Mohamad Fakih, Award–winning entrepreneur, CEO and President of Paramount Fine Foods, made a powerful case for what he termed ‘kind capitalism’ and centering employee well-being. Drawing from his experience as a leader and business owner during a challenging period at the unset of the pandemic, Mr. Fakih spoke about how inclusive leadership can inspire and motivate teams for greater collaboration and innovation to achieve business outcomes.

“If share holders want to make money, they need to put their employees first.”  Mohamad Fakih

Panel Discussion – Building Inclusive Workplaces

In a candid exchange of ideas, a panel of Human Resources experts from diverse sectors and organizations discussed how to foster inclusion and belonging in the workplace. They highlighted challenges and where improvements need to be made in workplace cultural practices and shared practical strategies and tips on how organizations and leaders can enhance their diversity and inclusion practices to create a sense of belonging among their employees.

“Culture is build on small meaningful moments in addition to the big strategies we all need to have.”  Keira Torkko, Chief People Officer, Assent

2022 Employer Excellence Award Recipients

Local employers, Giatec Scientific and Iversoft were recognized for the second consecutive year with the 2022 Employer Excellence Awards for their inclusive practices in the recruitment, onboarding and retention of skilled immigrants in their workplaces. Watch their videos