Meet Renu

Renu Gupta, Director of Talent 

Through consultation with both external and internal communities the Taskforce drafted an extensive set of measures across eight themes, which were then provided for consideration by the collegiate University as a whole. The consultation with external institutions helped us identify actions taken by others that had seen success and from which we can learn. One of the key strategic objectives identified in the resulting Race Equality Strategy is to work to increase the proportions of Black and Minority Ethnic staff in senior academic, research and professional roles.

Renu Gupta is the University’s inaugural Director of Talent and a longstanding advocate for equality, diversity and inclusion. 

What does Race Equality Week mean to you? 

"As the new Director of Talent, Race Equality Week holds significant meaning for me as it underscores the importance of fostering a workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In my capacity, it serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibility we bear in creating an environment where every individual, regardless of their racial or ethnic background, feels heard, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. 

Does the theme #ListenActChange connect with your new role as Director of Talent? 

"The theme of Listen Act Change aligns seamlessly with my role, emphasizing the need to actively engage in dialogue, take concrete actions, and drive meaningful transformations. 

Listening is the cornerstone of understanding, and by actively seeking out and valuing the voices of employees from diverse racial backgrounds, we can gain insights that lead to more inclusive and equitable talent management practices. Actively responding to these insights is the next crucial step. This involves implementing programs and initiatives that address any existing disparities, promote equal opportunities, and dismantle systemic barriers. Change is a continuous process, and as the Director of Talent, I am committed to championing and implementing initiatives that not only celebrate diversity but also result in tangible, positive outcomes for all our employees. By embedding these principles into our talent management strategies, we not only enhance the overall workplace experience but also contribute to a society where diversity is embraced, and equality is the norm." 

Looking to the year ahead, are there any key areas of the Race Equality Strategy that will be advancing? 

"Although I am new to the University, I was excited to see that the Race Equality Strategy and Action Plan includes many S.M.A.R.T goals related to inclusive recruitment. The forthcoming People Strategy will be a key driver toward our commitments to increasing the diversity of our senior roles. I am looking forward to working with colleagues in the Equality and Diversity Unit toward these important objectives."

We’d love to hear your story too    

If you would like to share your story and help showcase to work that brings the Race Equality Strategy to life, please contact us at equality@admin.ox.ac.uk