In a groundbreaking move, Flutter, a leading player in the gambling industry, is set to launch its Global Advocacy Programme. This initiative, spearheaded by Flutter’s Executive Committee, is designed to champion diversity and inclusion across four pivotal areas: gender, multiculturalism, LGBTQIA+ issues, and accessibility.
Leadership and Focus Areas:
The Global Advocacy Programme will see prominent Flutter executives taking charge of specific workstreams, showcasing a commitment to diversity at the highest levels. Amy Howe, the CEO of FanDuel, will lead the charge on gender issues. Pádraig Ó Ríordáin, Flutter’s Chief Legal Officer and Commercial Director, will oversee the multicultural workstream. LGBTQIA+ issues will be under the guidance of Barni Evans, CEO of Sportsbet, while Paul Cutter, Group Chief Information Officer, will be at the forefront of driving accessibility initiatives.
Programme Phases: Listen, Learn, Advocate, and Action
Recognizing the significance of a holistic approach, Flutter has structured the Global Advocacy Programme into four distinct phases: listen, learn, advocate, and action. The company aims to leverage employee insights throughout this journey to fulfill the objectives outlined in its Positive Impact Plan, launched in February. Among its ambitious targets, the plan seeks to achieve geographic representation in teams by 2030 and increase the presence of women in leadership roles.
Industry-wide Movement:
Flutter’s commitment to diversity aligns with a broader industry trend, where competitors like Entain have also embarked on sustainability strategies with a focus on diversity and inclusion. This collective effort indicates a paradigm shift within the gambling sector towards fostering a more inclusive environment.
Chief People Officer’s Perspective:
Phil Bishop, Flutter’s Chief People Officer, emphasized the pivotal role of the Executive Committee in driving meaningful cultural change. He stated, “At Flutter, we strongly believe the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion starts at the top.” The Global Advocacy Programme, according to Bishop, aims not only to meet the targets set in the Positive Impact Plan but also to address barriers and obstacles, ensuring a level playing field for all employees.
Programme Impact and Mission:
The Global Advocacy Programme is positioned as a central force in understanding the lived experiences of Flutter’s diverse workforce, particularly those from marginalized communities. In addition to achieving the goals of the Positive Impact Plan, the programme aspires to eliminate barriers, bridge experience gaps, and create an inclusive environment that empowers every individual.
As Flutter takes bold steps towards championing diversity and inclusion, the Global Advocacy Programme stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to fostering positive change within its organization and the broader gambling industry. By addressing critical issues through a structured and comprehensive approach, Flutter aims to set new standards for diversity, equity, and inclusion, influencing a more inclusive future for the entire sector.