Empowered for Change: Advocating Black Inclusion in Global Tech Hiring

In an era where diversity and inclusion are recognised as vital components of progress, Templeton and Partners takes a leading stance in advocating for change within the global tech industry. Embracing this year’s Black Inclusion Week’s theme of "Empowered for Change: Building a Better Future Together," we reaffirm our commitment to fostering an environment where Black professionals are not only included but empowered to excel. 

The Global Imperative for Inclusive Tech Hiring: 

Globally, the tech industry continues to grapple with significant diversity challenges. Whilst we shouldn’t need to compare racial disparity in hiring, it’s important we are aware and look to address the, Statistics from various regions paint a stark picture of underrepresentation and inequity. For instance: 

• Black employees make up only 8% of the tech workforce in the US, despite comprising 12% of the overall US labor force. 
• At major tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft, the percentage of Black employees is even lower - 8.8%, 3.9%, and 4.9% respectively 
• Black IT professionals face significant pay disparities - their average negotiated salary is $134,000 compared to $144,000 for white employees and $145,000 for Asian workers. 
• Over half (54%) of Black tech workers reported experiencing racial bias at work in 2022, significantly higher than any other racial group. 
• Only 3% of technology executives in the Fortune 500 are Black, according to McKinsey research. 
• Black tech professionals have to switch companies more frequently (every 3.5 years on average) for career growth compared to non-Black peers (5.1 years). 
• Mid-career Black tech workers (10-20 years experience) report getting promoted nearly half as often as their non-Black counterparts with the same experience level. 
• Less than a quarter (24%) of Black tech apprentices complete their apprenticeship programs compared to 33% of white apprentices, due to factors like discrimination and hostile environments. 

Templeton's Global Commitment to Change: 

 Templeton and Partners recognise the urgency of addressing these disparities on a global scale. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion transcends geographical boundaries and is deeply embedded in our organisational ethos. 

Through initiatives such as Black Inclusion Week, we catalyse action and dialogue, driving meaningful change across continents. Our theme, "Empowered for Change," resonates globally, emphasising the collective responsibility to dismantle barriers and create pathways to success for Black professionals worldwide. 

Empowering Black Professionals Across Borders: 

Empowerment knows no borders. Templeton and Partners are dedicated to empowering Black professionals across continents through targeted recruitment, mentorship programs, and professional development initiatives. Our global diversity recruitment strategies ensure that Black talent is recognised, nurtured, and given opportunities to thrive in the tech industry, regardless of geographical location. 

Furthermore, we leverage our global reach to advocate for policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in tech hiring. By collaborating with industry stakeholders, policymakers, and advocacy groups worldwide, we amplify the voices of Black professionals and drive systemic change on a global scale. 

Driving Global Change: 

Our commitment to Black inclusion extends beyond our organisational boundaries. We actively engage with tech ecosystems worldwide, challenging industry norms, and advocating for equitable hiring practices. Through partnerships, research collaborations, and community engagement, we contribute to a more inclusive global tech landscape.  

As we observe Black Inclusion Week and reflect on the theme of "Empowered for Change," Templeton and Partners reaffirm our unwavering commitment to driving meaningful progress towards a more inclusive global tech ecosystem. By championing diversity, fostering empowerment, and advocating for change on a global scale, we stand united in our pursuit of a future where every Black professional has an equal opportunity to thrive, irrespective of geographic location or cultural context. 

Together, we are empowered for change, and together, we will build a better future for Black professionals in tech, wherever they may be. 

For more information about how you could be improving DEI in your workplace, speak to Caroline Rademaker, Head of DEI and Benelux at Templeton & Partners at caroline.rademaker@templeton-recruitment.com