Leadership series: Kat Parsons

In this episode of the CORE Leadership Series, we sit down with Kat Parsons, the newly appointed CEO at Diversity Umbrella. 

Kat openss up about what stepping into this vital role means to her, her mission to drive unashamedly proud inclusion, and how she navigates driving change in large organisations.

From her early career in predominantly male-dominated environments to becoming a celebrated "positive disruptor," Kat shares invaluable insights on mindset, leadership resilience, and how to bring DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies to life beyond just a piece of paper. 

Whether you are an established leader, an aspiring changemaker, or working to make your own workplace more inclusive, Kat’s practical advice on engaging the unengaged is a must-watch. Key moments in this interview: 

• Stepping into the CEO role at Diversity Umbrella: Meaning, mission, and being unashamedly proud. 

• Celebrating excellence: The impact of the British Diversity Awards, Rainbow Awards, and European Diversity Awards. • Navigating a male-dominated environment and transitioning into a dedicated DEI career. 

• The power of the "Positive Disruptor": Why a disruptive approach is working so well. • Mindset secrets: How Kat prepares mentally before stepping into high-stakes meetings and events. • The ripple effect: How choosing positivity transforms the teams around you. 

• Resilience in leadership: Essential lessons learned from the toughest times. 

• From winner to judge: How experiencing both sides of industry awards shifts your perspective. 

• Beyond the paperwork: How large organisations can turn dry DEI policies into living, impactful cultures. 

• True inclusion: Strategies for engaging absolutely everyone, especially those who feel left out of the conversation. 

About Diversity Umbrella: As a driving force for positive social change, Diversity Umbrella help businesses cultivate authentic environments of belonging, equity, and inclusion. They champion progress by elevating underrepresented groups through global networks, thought-provoking campaigns, and influential leadership platforms. By bridging the gap between progressive employers, advocates, and local communities, Diversity Umbrella translate inclusive values into real-world impact. This commitment is highlighted by their portfolio of premier recognition schemes, including the establishment of the British Diversity Awards, Rainbow Honours, Employee Network Awards, and the European Diversity Awards, which celebrate outstanding DEI milestones across the globe.