Currently, there are only four LGBTQ+ CEOs in the Fortune 500 and none in the FTSE 100. This really illustrates the hidden challenges and differences in professional opportunities for LGBTQ+ people, especially when it comes to promotion and recruitment into senior roles.

Many employers publically say that improving diversity and inclusion in their workforce is a significant priority, but this will only truly happen with appropriate representation at the top of the organization.

My guest this week is Layla McCay, Director of Policy at the NHS Confederation and author of a new book called "Breaking The Rainbow Ceiling." Layla shines a light on the challenges that LGBTQ+ people face at work and offers advice on how companies can recognize and address the barriers and build a more inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and succeed.

In the interview, we discuss:

• Why she wrote the book

• The barriers that prevent LGBTQ+ people from being hired or promoted into senior roles

• Roles models and self-esteem

• Conscious and unconscious bias

• Managers reinforcing imposter syndrome.

• Understanding different experiences

• Allowing people to do their best work

• Intersectionality

• Equity in talent management

• Advice to employers on inclusive hiring

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