Richard DeNetto is CEO of Change The Race Ratio, a campaign to increase racial and ethnic minority representation on boards and in leadership teams in UK Business. He joins hosts Lila and Perminder on this episode to give an insight into the current state of diversity at board level across UK industry, including the water sector.

Are there enough senior leaders from ethnic minority backgrounds? If not, what can be done to make positive progress?

In this fascinating conversation Richard shares the latest statistics, plus explains how companies, leaders and individuals can all make a difference. He explains the relevance and impact of the Parker report, shares advice on best practices that have worked and points out common pitfalls and blindspots. Attention is given to the link between social mobility and representation, plus there is great practical advice for professionals at all levels on how to avoid affinity bias and how to overcome barriers to progression.

It is often said that real change needs to come from the top, so this episode is an essential listen for senior leaders in the water sector and beyond.

Beneath The Surface

Through powerful stories and real-life examples, Beneath The Surface highlights EDI topics in the water sector, sharing personal experiences and best practices that inspire change. It brings attention to the voices of under-represented groups, with a focus on attracting diverse talent and fostering a culture of inclusion. 

By connecting senior leaders and rising professionals from different backgrounds, it creates a space where ideas flourish, synergies are built, and the industry moves closer to becoming a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Beneath The Surface is co-hosted by British Water's CEO, Lila Thompson, and Perminder Atwal, HR Business Partner, Xylem UK & Ireland. 

Podcast Co-host- Lila Thompson, British Water, CEO

Lila is responsible for British Water’s strategic direction, representing the interests of UK water and wastewater supply chain companies together with wider stakeholders across the sector, through the UK, Technical and International forums. The Water Industry Forum provides challenge-led, independent thought leadership, to tackle the challenges facing the sector. Lila was formerly responsible for British Water’s international services and led business development visits to a range of markets including Saudi Arabia, Libya, Morocco, Russia, Romania, Bulgaria, China, and India. Lila has over 20 years of experience driving business growth, policy development, and stakeholder engagement in a variety of sectors.

Podcast Co-host- Perminder Atwal, HR Business Partner, Xylem UK & Ireland

With 18 years of HR experience spanning manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and now the water industry, Perminder has developed a deep understanding of business and strategy, and her journey has also highlighted the critical role of company culture and psychological safety in driving engagement, business success, innovation, and development. Perminder is passionate about ensuring the accessibility of clean water for all. A trip to India in her early years revealed the harsh reality of limited and unclean water resources, particularly impacting children, which was heartbreaking. This experience fuelled her dedication to helping others and reinforced her commitment to working in a global organisation focused on the social value of water.