Accenture Defies Adversity, Embraces Diversity and Inclusion Journey

In her new book, "Unwavering," Accenture's global inclusion and diversity strategist Nellie Borrero recounts her experiences with racism in 1986, highlighting the firm's initial shortcomings. However, she also describes her efforts to foster a more inclusive culture, leading to the setting of 2025 goals for improving racial and gender representation. Accenture remains committed to these targets despite legal challenges against DEI policies.

Unwavering in the Face of Adversity: Accenture's Journey Towards Diversity and Inclusion

In 1986, Nellie Borrero, now Accenture's senior strategic adviser for global inclusion and diversity, embarked upon her career at a consulting firm, the forerunner to Accenture. Her experiences there exposed her to the insidious nature of racism, which she has tirelessly fought against throughout her esteemed tenure at the company.

Early on, Borrero encountered blatant discrimination. A secretary handed her a subway token, mockingly referring to her as the "token hire." At her inaugural Christmas party, the partner who had hired her presented her with a brightly wrapped gift that, upon opening, revealed itself to be roach spray, accompanied by the disparaging remark that Puerto Ricans were known for having roaches in their homes.

Humiliated and deeply wounded, Borrero confronted the partner, expressing her sense of indignity and her belief that she did not belong in such an environment. To her surprise, the partner expressed remorse and pledged to support her in her endeavors to transform the company's culture.

Borrero's unwavering determination and the subsequent support of her colleagues culminated in the publication of "Unwavering: Rejecting Bias, Igniting Change, Celebrating Inclusion." This poignant memoir chronicles her nearly four-decade-long crusade to instill diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles at Accenture.

In 2020, Accenture boldly established ambitious goals for racial and gender representation within its U.S. workforce. These objectives included increasing the percentage of Hispanic U.S. employees from 9.5% to 13% by 2025 and elevating the proportion of Hispanic U.S. managing directors from 3.5% to 4.7%.

"We set out these goals because we wanted to hold ourselves accountable," Borrero explained in an interview with The Associated Press. "We still have those goals in place for 2025, and I'm thrilled with the progress we've made."

Despite facing legal challenges orchestrated by conservative activists and elected officials who question the legality of DEI policies, Accenture remains resolute in its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

"We understand the business imperative, the business value of diversity from the perspective of clients and customers," Borrero emphasized. "Those organizations that recognize this will continue to champion diversity."

Borrero recognizes the challenges inherent in creating an inclusive workplace and acknowledges the importance of fostering a culture of grace. "We have many people who want to be allies but are awkward allies," she said. "They don't want to hurt or offend. But we need to give each other grace in this process."

She believes that education and empathy are crucial in fostering genuine understanding and reducing unintentional biases. "We can choose to educate the person that committed the offense," she advised. "They can choose to receive it. But if they continue to behave in a certain way, then grace is gone."

While Accenture has made significant progress in increasing representation, Borrero acknowledges that the work is far from over. The number of Latinos and Black people in managerial roles remains small, but she is determined to continue pushing for equitable outcomes.

"I cannot tell you the level of effort it has taken to even get to where we are now," she said. "We are going to continue to put intensity into this. This is heavy, heavy lifting. I am pleased with our progress, but I'm not satisfied."

Borrero's unwavering advocacy and Accenture's unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion serve as a beacon of hope in a world grappling with systemic inequality. Their steadfast efforts will undoubtedly continue to inspire progress and foster a more just and equitable society for all.