Tony Brett

Identifies as: gay
Pronouns: he/him
I have worked for Oxford University since 1993, in a medical science department, a college, Central IT Services, and as Director of MSD IT Services.  I am currently seconded as interim CISO for the University. Coming out at work I have found colleagues to be accepting, supporting and positive. Being able to be open and my authentic self has been brilliant for my general workplace well-being and has enabled me to thrive.

I was part of the University LGBT advisory group for many years and helped to establish the annual LGBT History Month lecture. In 2003 I was part of the first Oxford Pride organizing committee.  I believe positive action on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion is vital for healthy institutions and healthy societies. I am convinced that diverse teams work better together, solve problems better, and make better decisions.

I am super-keen on enabling people confidently to be their full and authentic selves in the workplace so I lead by example and strive to remove institutional barriers to others coming out.  I think it’s important that colleagues feel able to challenge unhelpful or even deliberately spiteful comments aimed at people’s sexuality or gender identity and aim to make sure all know that’s OK in the workplace.  I am particularly concerned around some of the language and rhetoric I hear about trans and gender non-confirming people.  I enjoyed the LGBT+ role model training run by our University and proudly wear the badge on my Medical Sciences Division Profile along with the rainbow on the flag in my office and the lanyard I wear.