🌈LGBTQ+ in the service industry - Jamie Henderson

The hospitality industry has been a LGBTQ+ community supporter and top employment sector for years and it globally recognises the need to change the way employers operate globally in order to be more diverse. This series of interviews will be looking into the career and inspirations of top industry leaders/figures to celebrate one of the most diverse employment sectors. 

Jamie Henderson, Talent & Communications Manager / Operations Manager – Golden Brick Pubs Ltd

What does “diversity” mean to you? 

A diverse workforce makes for a better work force. Diversity to me, means opportunity and understanding. Never being satisfied and wanting to learn more about people. A business that is representative of everyone makes for a better machine! Plus, of course, it's always amazing to see people grow in any industry. 

During your career in the service industry, what has made it possible for your to be a successful leader and at the same time, a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community? 

I think many LGBTQI people have been through challenges beyond the norm, so I'd like to think I have a good understanding of people and what makes them tick and an understanding that people grow and succeed when they feel safe and valued. One of my proudest moments was when we persuaded our company to not stock Russian vodka as the Russians had introduced significant laws aimed at oppressing gay people. Leading that was amazing and something to shout about. Together we are strong. 

Do you have recommendations for any LGBTQ+ people entering the employment/business world who might face situations of discrimination? 

Don't hide your true self and if in doubt seek help and support. There's lots of groups out there who can help in all areas of business and industry. Look to see what your company does to support LGBTQI people. Research them and ask around. 

Have you noticed any differences from a best practice in the business perspective, as an LGBTQ+ person, between when you started compared to now (i.e. policies, support…)? 

I think the biggest change is how LGBTQI people are for more accepted than they were say, 20 years ago. As a gay man, you come out to people every day, it's just the way it is, but I see it changing and for the better too. Companies are far more engaging with their workforce and the best employers want to find out how to get the best from their people, irrespective of gender or sexuality. 

Has anything in your professional career (or maybe personal life) that has made you think or say, “let’s change this for the community?” 

the Orlando shooting a few years back really hit me, it could have been any gay bar in the world, and it made me reflect on what we could all do better. Our community is strong when together and I hope it continues to be so. 

Have there been any LGBTQ+ organisations, groups or places that have been part of your journey? 

I was very much involved with the gay scene in my early part of my career in hospitality, working I. Some of the biggest bars in London. I've worked for businesses that have sponsored football teams and rugby teams and made it their business to ensure that people had spaces to join with other LGBTQI people. I am now a supporter of mermaids which is a trans youth charity, it's an area I learn about everyday... I'm also, supporting Stonewall Housing with a beer made to support them through a donation per pint sold by Portobello Brewery... It’s called Polari which is brilliant... I've always been impressed with the diverse number of charities out there and hearing from brewers who want to help our community has been a real highlight. 

1. What do you think could improve for the LGBTQ+ community in the employment world? 

If someone had said to me 18 months ago, we would be adding pronouns to our email addresses and social media... I'd have said it would never happen... Yet it’s now more common place and that's a real positive. The most important things as I see it are getting the best from people and you do this by making them feel valued, supported and understood. A good company will enshrine this and get all the benefits of a productive workforce.

If you would like to take part as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, get in touch with Krishnan (krishnan@corecruitment.com)