Championing diversity and inclusion

Charles joined BAT Kenya as a trainee in 2000 and now leads operations across more than 30 countries in Africa. He is a keen advocate of a diverse workforce, with broad experience, that can challenge the status quo to deliver breakthrough results.  Outside of work, Charles sponsored the launch of Bangladesh’s first mentorship programs for Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) and Agricultural Science students.

Shay is a transformational leader with over 20 years of experience. She is the Executive Sponsor of the company’s 300+ member African American Employee Resource Group and a driving force behind initiatives such as the African American Leadership Connection to increase minority representation within BAT. Shay is Chair of the Reynolds American Foundation Board was instrumental in the company’s $3 million commitment to support social justice in the US.

Oluwabukunola plays a leadership role in advancing BAT’s people strategy. She is passionate about promoting diversity and inspiring colleagues from diverse cultures through mentorship and workshops. Oluwabukunola led the creation of BAT’s East Africa Persons with Disabilities strategy and is an active member or organisations that promote inclusive and progressive environments in the workplace and wider society.

Rumbi has been a strong advocate of diversity in the workplace for over a decade. She is a member of the Women in Trade and Women in BAT networks, coaching and mentoring young female talent. Rumbi is regularly speaks at external events and helps women in trade to build resilience in male-dominated environments.

Adejumoke is committed to promoted fairness and equality and, as a cultural ambassador, has led initiatives to uphold BAT’s core values of freedom through responsibility, speaking up and being heard, and not being marginalised. She pioneered a programme to create safe spaces for employees to share their views and be candid with Senior Managers.