With a unique journey that weaves through various roles and experiences, Kendra Mack, Vice President of DEIB at Kanarys, a technology company focused on providing the tools organizations need to create long-term systemic change around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging challenge (DEIB), has become a beacon for those seeking to understand and implement DEIB in the workplace. Her story is not just about climbing the corporate ladder but about reshaping narratives, fostering inclusivity, and driving impactful change.
Mack reminisces about her early days, stating, “I usually say I have a bit of a windy road that got me to where I am now.” Born and raised in St. Louis, Mack went to college in Chicago. After college, she ventured into various roles from administrative to project management and marketing.
These experiences, as varied as they were, set the stage for her deeper dive into DEIB. Mack’s passion, combined with her broad professional background, shaped the trajectory of her impactful career in DEIB. Each position, each challenge, and each success became a stepping stone, guiding her down a path that was unexpected and profoundly impactful.
Around 2013, Mack started her passion project, and she recalls, “I wanted to specifically help women and people of color in areas of confidence building and goal setting. This soon evolved into a full-fledged mission when she realized the potential of DEIB-related training in the corporate world.
As Mack delved deeper into the intricacies of the millennial workforce, she noticed a gap. The prevailing narratives about millennials didn’t resonate with her own experiences or those of her peers, especially from minority backgrounds, she recalls. “Nothing that was being said back then about millennials spoke to my experience as a minority millennial,” Mack observed.
Determined to change this narrative, Mack began sharing her insights on platforms like LinkedIn, quickly gaining traction as the “recovering millennial jobaholic.” Through coaching and mentoring, she aimed to shift mindsets. But as she coached millennials, a recurring theme emerged.
“It always went back to their managers,” Mack noted. She soon realized that the real challenge lay in transforming organizational leadership. This realization led her to become a certified corporate trainer, focusing on fostering trust, effective communication, and inclusivity in diverse teams.
Mack’s commitment to DEIB was further solidified during pivotal moments like the global pandemic and the tragic murder of George Floyd. As the only person of color in her team at a St. Louis tech company, she found herself at the forefront of facilitating crucial conversations about diversity and inclusion. Spearheading listening tours and fostering open dialogues, she worked tirelessly to bring about organizational change.
Her subsequent roles at MGM Resorts Int. in Las Vegas and Korn Ferry further honed her expertise, allowing her to merge her passion for DEIB with actionable strategies. At Korn Ferry, she collaborated with giants like Deloitte, offering insights and solutions for DEIB challenges. This wealth of experience culminated in her current role at Kanarys, where she leads the charge in transforming data into actionable DEIB strategies.
Kanarys stands out as one of the most diverse workplaces Mack has been a part of. The company’s ethos is deeply rooted in DEIB, and this is evident in its partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized enterprises, leading national advocacy groups, and community organizations, along with its commitment to fostering a culture of empathy and inclusivity.
Mack speaks fondly of the company’s initiatives, such as the “cheers for peers” channel, which encourages team members to celebrate and acknowledge each other’s achievements. While this might seem like a simple gesture, it’s these small acts that contribute to a larger culture of belonging and inclusivity. Mack believes that such practices, though not directly tied to diversity, play a crucial role in fostering a sense of inclusion among employees.
Kanarys’s unique approach to DEIB lies in its ability to provide organizations with in-depth data that can be transformed into actionable strategies. As the VP of DEIB, Mack’s role is pivotal in guiding CEOs and leadership teams at other companies through this data, helping them craft roadmaps and learning sessions tailored to their specific needs.
The goal is clear: to turn insights into tangible actions that drive change. Mack’s passion shines through as she speaks about the joy of facilitating open conversations with CEOs, guiding them through challenging discussions, and helping them navigate the complexities of the DEIB landscape. Despite the challenges that the DEIB space currently faces, Mack remains optimistic, drawing strength from the dedicated individuals she works with and the impactful work they do.
The DEIB landscape is ever-evolving, and with it come unique challenges. Mack acknowledges the complexities, especially in the current political and social climate.
From concerns about affirmative action rulings to internal opposition, the road to inclusivity isn’t always smooth. However, Mack emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing these challenges head-on. Her approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration. She believes that open dialogue and data-driven strategies are key to navigating these hurdles. For Mack, it’s not just about acknowledging diversity but actively fostering an environment where everyone feels they belong.
Kendra Mack’s journey, from her early days in corporate America to her pivotal role at Kanarys, is a testament to her dedication to DEIB. Her experiences, both as a millennial and as a person of color, have shaped her perspective, allowing her to bridge gaps and drive meaningful change. In a world where DEIB is more crucial than ever, leaders like Mack are at the forefront, guiding organizations toward a more inclusive future. Her story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of passion, perseverance, and the importance of championing diversity at every step.
As Mack has demonstrated, working together we can make a difference.
Lin Grensing-Pophal is a Contributing Editor at HR Daily Advisor.
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