More than 300 business and diversity leaders gathered at Titanic Belfast on Tuesday for the annual Diversity Mark Summit EDI 2.0.

As Northern Ireland’s largest conference focusing on equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), the sell-out event welcomed audiences from across the broad spectrum of business to help foster more inclusive workplaces locally.

Echoing the conference theme, ‘From Action to Impact’, Minister for the Economy Conor Murphy addressed guests in the room outlining how the combined power of voice and representation can serve as an enabler to strengthen Northern Ireland’s economy. 

Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: “An important shift in thinking is underway.  The evidence is growing that a more inclusive economy is also a better performing economy. For instance, employers that provide workers with Good Jobs tend to be more productive, and have higher staff retention rates.  My consultation on a Good Jobs Bill has just closed.  My officials are now considering the 192 submissions to the consultation, and advice on a Bill will be provided to me before the end of the year.

“There is an interest in, and receptiveness to, the ideas being discussed at this summit. The view that the primary objective of economic policy should be ‘economic growth’, and that social objectives should be a secondary add-on, is in decline.  Thank you to Diversity Mark, and all at the summit, for all the work they do to promote equality, diversity and inclusion.”

The Diversity Mark Summit which was supported by Allstate as Headline sponsor, also featured panel sessions offering global and local perspectives on EDI, along with a keynote speaker Professor Tim Soutphommasane.

As Chief Diversity Officer at University of Oxford, Professor Soutphommasane shared actionable insights and expertise to help enable local organisations to navigate complex issues on the EDI agenda, such as political polarisation, identity, culture, and leadership. His guidance will support businesses to spearhead positive change in their journey toward a future where Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) will benefit everyone.

Director of Diversity Mark, Christine White, added: “Moving the dial on EDI requires buy-in from progressive organisations and forward-thinking leaders. The Diversity Mark team is inspired by today’s turnout as businesses begin to see first-hand the tangible impact made possible by the action of advancing equality, diversity and inclusion within workplaces in Northern Ireland and beyond.”

“Today’s Summit was all about sharing the knowledge and the tools necessary to create organisations that are fundamentally inclusive and future-fit, bringing with it the business benefits that we know can unlock greater impact on the local economy, from increased profits to a wider talent pool and, ultimately, employees who feel valued for who they are. On behalf of Diversity Mark, I’d like to extend a thanks to our keynote speakers and panellists today for their contribution. We look forward to extracting the insights and learnings as we collectively create a successful roadmap for the future of EDI.”