Here’s What’s Required For DEI To Thrive

CRE firms seeking to drive actionable, sustainable change in the DEI space must ensure such programs are a “core component” of overall business strategy, according to one industry leader. 

“Commercial real estate has seen an increased focus on DEI over the years, and we are also seeing increased demand from our clients for support in achieving their DEI goals from a workforce and supplier diversity perspective,” says Nadine Augusta, Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at Cushman & Wakefield.  But “while we know progress has been made, the CRE industry is early in its journey and there is more work to be done.” 

Augusta sat down with GlobeSt.com in advance of next week’s Women of Influence conference in Lake Tahoe to preview remarks she’ll make as part of a panel on sustainable DEI strategies. She says firms should embrace three key areas of focus to drive DEI programs and outcomes: investment in the right people, aligning DEI strategy with the core components of the business, and ensuring accountability.

“Start by investing in the right people and resources to lead the effort forward. Having the right level of expertise will make a difference with the strategy, approach and priorities defined,” she says. “Ensure the DEI strategy is aligned with the business strategy. The commitment from the top must be clear and DEI has to be positioned as a priority for the company. Ensuring that DEI is a core part of the business strategy will enable this to happen.”

Augusta also notes that “shared accountability” is critical, adding that “DEI is everyone’s responsibility and requires each employee to do their part to contribute to progress.” 

Augusta joined Cushman in December 2020 and has since implemented the firm’s first global DEI strategy. She has built out a DEI team to address opportunities and challenges specific to the firm, and says she’s focused on creating long-term sustainable change through a DEI strategy that addresses the systems, policies and key decision points that influence Cushman’s unique culture.

“Driving greater progress in DEI is necessary to attract and retain the best talent, to foster a nurturing and supportive culture, and to deliver the best results for our clients and shareholders,” she says. “With the right resources, infrastructure, and support from senior leadership there is no limit to the amount of sustainable progress that can be made in furthering DEI.”

Check back soon for more insights from this year’s GlobeSt ELITE Women Of Influence conference in Lake Tahoe, Calif. July 24-26.