Inclusion: Why our values matter more than ever

Article by Coram Williams , Chief Financial Officer at the Adecco Group.

Over the past month, I’ve had the privilege of reading four deeply personal stories from colleagues across the Adecco Group, shared in honour of Pride month. They are stories of identity, growth, fear, resilience, and joy. But more than anything, they are stories of courage. 

Will, one of our Global Customer Success Managers in the UK, traces the journey from self-censorship to self-acceptance, and the role that inclusion, curiosity, and kindness play in making workplaces safe enough for people to evolve. 

Kayla, a Marketing Project Manager in the U.S., speaks with passion about representation, about fighting imposter syndrome, and about finding strength in community. 

Hiroki, Head of our Enterprise Project Management Office in Japan, is helping to reshape cultural norms in a context where conformity is often prized over difference. This takes courage, cultural sensitivity, and long-term vision. 

Chris, a Recruiting Director in the U.S., reflects on how embracing his identity has shaped his confidence and leadership. 

These stories are a call to action and a reminder that supporting people as an ally matters. 

Because while our industry is driven by results - EBITA, market share, and revenue - the truth is, none of it is sustainable without a culture that lets people thrive. When inclusion is part of the culture, teams perform better, adapt more quickly, and build deeper trust. 

I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the importance of inclusive spaces — places where people feel seen, heard, and respected for who they are. I deeply admire the courage it takes to move through the world in ways that challenge expectations. I have great respect for those who do so, and I empathise with the struggles and turmoil reflected in the stories of Will, Kayla, Hiroki, and Chris — as well as countless others whose experiences often go unseen. That recognition strengthens my commitment to allyship and to building a more inclusive world for everyone. 

That’s what Pride month, and these stories, reinforce for me. Yes, we’re here to meet our targets in the quarter, but we’re also here to shape a company and culture. 

Thank you to Will, Kayla, Hiroki and Chris - and everyone who continues to lead by example demonstrating inclusion and courage. Your stories and actions move us forward and help us build an inclusive and supportive culture to the benefit of us all. 

Read our #ProudToBe stories here: https://www.adeccogroup.com/future-of-work/latest-insights/proud-to-be