Congress Patron: László Andor

EU’s Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion

The European Diversity & Business Congress is a high-ranking international gathering of senior corporate managers, HR and CSR managers, Diversity and Inclusion experts and practitioners, government and non-government organization (NGO) officials, academics etc. focused on the complex challenges and opportunities related to global diversity management.

Unlike our past D&I conferences, EDIC has a very strong Pan-European focus and is unique gathering of best in-class companies, and an ideal learning place for both D&I professionals and beginners.

Whereas day one is focusing on The Pan-European approach to managing inclusive diversity, current challenges and opportunities, comparative advantages of flexible working arrangements both for companies and employees, taping into the pipeline of women and minorities, setting and managing diversity targets in an ever-changing workforce, the dynamics of Social Networks in driving D& I in global and pan-European Companies and Organisations, day two is committed to Inclusion management, Innovative research findings, career development and human networks, diversity charters, employee engagement and satisfaction, marketing D&I for business results, placing a special focus on how European companies and D&I experts can overcome challenges and create new opportunities in emerging workforces.

Why should you attend?

Business Competitiveness and Innovation

The EDIC is an ideal Forum for Business and the public sector, leaders and decision-makers seeking insight, expertise and solutions on how to stay competitive and successful in today’s rapidly changing workforces and marketplaces. The European Diversity & Business Congress 2012 offers participants a two-day conference experience with a unique combination of research findings, practical tools, as well as an unparalleled range of themes and perspectives in the area of Diversity, Inclusion, Leadership and Management. High-profile international Diversity and Inclusion experts, CEOs of the world’s leading corporations and academics will be sharing their insights, strategies, benefits, challenges, opportunities and the most recent research findings on how today’s businesses can best manage and profit from Diversity and Inclusion.

Employee engagement

EDIC is all about Diversity & Business because today’s work-force and consumers are not only highly diverse but are clearly indicating that feeling comfortable and acknowledged in a company is the key ingredient for employees to fully commit themselves to developing opportunities, abilities and innovation and creativity.

Networking Platform

Additionally EDIC provides an open platform for face-to-face networking and sharing between diversity practitioners, researchers, national and international CEOs and Managers, potential strategic partners, prospects and customers.
Do you think your company or organisation needs more information and knowledge on how to identify, recruit and/or retain a diverse workforce? Then we sincerely advise and encourage you not to miss this opportunity!

Who should attend EDIC?

EDIC is carefully conceptualised to respond to the needs of CEOs, HR managers, CSR managers, diversity experts and practitioners, organisational development specialists, policy-makers and anyone interested in diversity and inclusion not only from the political arena, the media, educational institutions but also diversity trainers and coaches etc.

Companies that have already registered are:

Xing (Germany)
Austrian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Austria)
Austrian Parliament (Austria)
Business- Mamas (Austria)
Nabucco Pipeline (Austria)
BP Europa SE(Germany)
International Society of Diversity and Inclusion Professionals (US)
IBM (Austria)
British Council (Austria)
British Council (Norway)
Diversa Consulting (Finland)
AXA Group (France)
T – Systems (Slovakia)
Bertelsmann AG (Germany)
Verbund (Austria)
Bavarian Centre for Cross-cultural Medicine (Germany)
European Parliament (Louxembourg)
Raiffeisen Bank (Austria)
Deloitte Consulting GmbH (Austria)
International network for Terminology (Austria)
Newham University hospital Trust (UK)
Constellation Strategy and Analytical Services (US)
Brainworker – Community Marketing (Austria)
PRM Diversity Consultants (UK)
FAS Research (Austria)
Labbè & Cie. GmbH (Germany)
business support (Austria)
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (Spain)
Center for Creative Leadership (Belgium)
Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (Austria)
Mindset System for Success (Austria)
ICUnet AG (Austria)
Bawag Bank PSK (Austria)
Wiener Städtische (Austria)
Aviva (UK)
Diversee (France)
ENAR – European Network Against Racism (Belgium)
mrk diversity management (Austria)
UnitCargo (Austria)
Spring Hill Communication (US)
Gus Takkale International (Canada)
Springboard Consulting LLC (US)
Egon Zehnder International (Germany)
Land Steiermark FA6A (Austria)
ECLEE (France)
Charte de la Diversità (France)
Charta der Vielfalt (Germany)
equalizent (Austria)
Global Diversity Collaborative (USA)
University for Music and performing Arts (Austria)
Medizinische Universität Wien (Austria)
Context Gmbh-MIGIN (Austria)
Katarzyna Greco Consult e.U. (Austria)
European Central Bank (Germany)
mehrPerspektiven (Germany)

When and where?

The two-day European Diversity & Business Congress from 1-2 March 2012 takes place in Vienna, Austria.

Day one, 1.3.2012, 12:45-6:45pm

The Pan-European approach to managing inclusive diversity and the benefits of human capital management in today’s businesses

Congress venue:

Wifi Wien

Insitute for Economic Development
of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce

Währinger Gürtel 97, 1180 Vienna

Cocktail Reception- European Diversity Leadership Honours

Venue EDIC Honours Reception

Ringturm Wien, 

Schottenring 30, 1010 Vienna

Day Two, 2.3.2012, 9-6pm

Managing inclusion, driving innovation and diversity in today’s businesses; overcoming challenges and creating new opportunities

Congress Venue

 Raiffeisen Forum

Friedrich – Wilhelm – Raiffeisen Platz 1, 1020 Vienna

How many people are expected to attend the Congress?

Each of our past diversity leadership conferences has attracted over 150 participants from all over the world.  However, for the purpose of interactively and intensively engaging and taping into the expertise and biographies of both our speakers and attendees we are consciously limiting the number of our participants to provide an intimate atmosphere for intensive exchange.

Congress language

The Congress will be held both in English and German according to Speaker´s preference. Simultaneous Interpretation will be provided in both languages as needed.

Goodwill Ambassadors

• 

  Bernhard Kerres

  Director Wiener Konzerthaus

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  Bernhard Kerres is Director of the Vienna Konzerthaus since 1 July 2007. As director, he considers it his main task to make music in its diverse forms and highest quality available to as many people as possible. Bernhard Kerres studied opera and concert singing in Vienna. He has been involved as a soloist and international opera productions and festivals and a worked for one year at the Opera House Zurich. Bernhard graduated from the London Business School economics in1998. 1997 he was consultant at consulting firm Booz & Company. In July 2002 he became CFO of Kapsch AG, Vienna and from 2006 to 2007 he was CEO of Technology and M. Tech Beteiligungs AG in Germany.

• 

  Brigitte Wolf

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  Dr. Brigitte Wolf has been the Director of ORF’s, the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation, regional radio and TV station, Radio Wien, since 2002. Radio Wien’s output totals 24 hours of radio a day, 30 minutes of daily local TV news, 15 national TV programs per year as well as 7.3 million page impressions a month.
  Dr. Wolf holds a PhD in media studies, communications and psychology.
  Brigitte Wolf began working for ORF while still a student, first in radio and subsequently in media research.
  From 1991-94 Dr. Wolf was Executive Assistant to the Director-General, Gerd Bacher; 1994-95 she was head of the department of external relations as well as company spokesperson. Returning from maternity leave in 1999, Dr. Wolf assumed responsibility for all of ORF’s HR Training and Staff Development, including management, technical and journalistic staff, as well as “high potential” trainees. Dr. Wolf’s 2^nd term as Radio Wien’s Director ends in 2011.

• 

  Gertrud Tauchhammer

  UN special envoy i.e. Honorary Consul of Tunisia and Cameroon Media Owner & Editor in Chief

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  Ms Tauchhammer is a self-employed publisher, editor and editor in chief of
  SOCIETY magazine. Between 1980 and 2000 she was a lecturer for simultaneous and consecutive interpreting at the University of Vienna. Gertrud Tauchhammer is a sworn court interpreter for Portuguese. Since 1992 Mrs. Tauchhammer has been Honorary Consul of Cameroon in Austria, and since 2003 Honorary Consul of the Republic of Tunisia. She is also a founding board member of several Austrian-Foreign societies. Gertrud is the mother of two grown up children.

• 

  Martin Eichtinger

  Ambassador, Director General for Cultural Policy at the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs

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  Born 1961 in Graz, Austria, J.D. , postgraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University in Bologna/Italy and Paris. He joined the Austrian Foreign Service in 1986 and served as personal secretary to the Foreign Minister. His diplomatic assignments included Mexico and Washington, D.C., where he headed the Austrian Press and Information Service from 1992-1999. Between 1999 and 2007, he was Chief of Cabinet of the Austrian Special Representative for Payments to Former Forced and Slave Laborers of the Nazi-Regime, Director for International Affairs at the Austrian Federation of Industry, manager in a private company, Chief of Staff and later Secretary General of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Economics and Labor. From 2007 to 2010, he served as Austrian Ambassador to Romania and the Republic of Moldova. Since July 2010, he has been Director General for Cultural Policy at the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs.

• 

  Rudolf Scholten

  Member of the Board at Oesterreichische Kontrollbank AG (Austrian Bank)

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  Mr Rudolf Scholten is currently a member of the Board of the Austrian Bank Österreichische Kontrollbank Aktiengesellschaft”, President of the Bruno Kreisky Forum for International Dialogue, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Vienna Festival Weeks as well as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Austrian Film Institute. Between 1990 and 1996, Mr Scholten was the Austrian Federal Minister of Education and the Arts and the Austrian Federal Minister of Science, Research and the Arts. Previously, he was an Economic Policy Advisor for the Ministry of Finance and Office of the Federal Chancelor.

  Mr Scholten holds a degree in Law and Economics of the University of Vienna.
  He is married and has 3 daughters.

News

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      The European Diversity and Business Congress 2012 is proud to announce its Featured Speakers: Opening Keynote: “Harnessing diversity and inclusiveness to maximise outcomes for employees, customers, and shareholders: the pan European perspective.” Featured Speaker: Andy Moffat, Human Resources Director Aviva Europe, UK Introducer: Nicole Bäck-Knapp, Managing Director Ecker & Partner, Austria Keynote 2 “Make it Happen: Embrace Change and Thrive on it!” Featured Speaker: Gus Takkale, International Change Catalyst & Speaker, Canada Introducer: Simon Inou, CEO M-MEDIA, Austria Keynote 3: Increasing Diversity [...]
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• EDIC discusses the Business & Diversity impact of social network dynamics

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          Never before have social networks had such a significant impact on the way individuals as well as companies and institutions communicate. Has your company understood the dynamics that govern the world of social media and is it communicating in the right way? How are social networks impacting Diversity, Inclusion and Business Performances in the world today? Join us at EDIC´s 2012 split-up session to find out more! Split-up Session 2.2 The role of social network dynamics in driving inclusive diversity [...]
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• Call for Speakers

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  European Diversity and Inclusion Congress (EDIC) High-­‐level international forum for business executives, media and research institutions Vienna, 1st – 2nd March 2012Dear D&I Experts, Practitioners, Researchers etc.! The European Diversity and Inclusion Congress –EDIC 2012 is happy to announce its call for speakers! EDIC is a high-ranking international gathering of senior corporate managers, HR and CSR managers, diversity and inclusion experts and practitioners, government and non-government organization (NGO) officials, academics etc. focusing on the complex challenges and opportunities related to global diversity management. EDIC [...]
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• Don’t miss out: Secure yourself one of the last tickets for EDIC 2012!

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        Join us on the 1 st of March when EDIC will be hosted by the Austrian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to discuss the European Diversity Charters. Come and gain an interesting overview of the French, Austrian and German Diversity Charters and take a closer look with us to see how they work at the European level. European Diversity Charters: going beyond mere intentions and how they are impacting today’s business in organizations. Diversity Charters have proved to foster consciousness for [...]
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• EDIC 2012 Count Down is running! Only 10 more days left!

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          Only 10 more days left to benefit from our extended Christmas Special Offer! Register on time and save up to €130 off our Early Birds registration fee. Pay € 552 instead of €690. This special offer is limited and therefore early registration is highly recommended. After January 20th you will be paying the standard conference rate of € 790. Click here to register: http://www.diversityleadership.eu/event/european-diversity-congress/#registration Our offer: • Europe’s unique and leading D&I conference with over 40 top speakers from over [...]
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• EDIC recommends the International Society of Diversity & Inclusion Professionals’ Conference

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        Diversity Leadership & EDIC are proud partners of the International Society for Diversity & Inclusion Professionals and as such highly recommend the upcoming 2012 International Society of Diversity and Inclusion Professionals Inaugural Conference taking place from April 24, 2012 – April 27 at Gran Melia Puerto Rico Resort, Río Grande. Register Now! 75% of the International Society of Diversity & Inclusion Professionals’ Conference Breakout Sessions Are Full   Cary, NC (February 14, 2012) –The International Society of Diversity and Inclusion Professionals’  [...]
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• EU Commissioner Andor to assume patronage of EDIC 2012

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  László Andor, EU’s Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion assumes the patronage of the European Diversity and Business Congress 2012! The team of the European Diversity and Business Congress heartily welcomes you to 2012 and wishes you a perfect start in 2012! Our offer: Europe’s unique and leading D&I conference with over 40 top speakers from over 10 European countries plus Canada and the US •    Six groundbreaking panels on crucial topics around managing diversity, inclusion and business results •    Three thought -provoking [...]
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• EU-Kommissar Andor übernimmt die Schirmherrschaft des European Diversity and Business Congress 2012!

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      László Andor, EU-Kommissar für Beschäftigung, Soziales und Integration übernimmt die Schirmherrschaft des European Diversity and Business Congress 2012! Das Team des European Diversity and Business Congress heißt Sie herzlich willkommen ins Neue Jahr und wünscht Ihnen einen guten Start in 2012! Unser Angebot: Europas einzigartige und führende D&I-Konferenz mit über 40 Top-ReferentInnen aus über 10 europäischen Ländern sowie Kanada und den USA • Sechs bahnbrechende Keynotes fokussierend auf wesentliche Themen rund um Diversity Management, Integration und Business-Ergebnisse • Drei Gedanken anregende Keynotes [...]
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• European Diversity & Inclusion Congress (EDIC): Special Christmas Participation fee!

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    Diversity Leadership is proud to announce its co-sponsorship with the International Society of Diversity & Inclusion Professionals in the framework of the European Diversity and Inclusion Congress on March 1-2, 2012.   Press release The International Society of Diversity & Inclusion Professionals Co-Sponsors the Groundbreaking European Diversity & Inclusion Congress in Vienna, Austria   Cary, NC (November 29, 2011) – The International Society of Diversity and Inclusion Professionals (ISDIP), the first global comprehensive association for the diversity and inclusion field, spanning all industries [...]
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• European Diversity and Business Congress March 1st and 2nd 2012!

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  Vienna Dear D&I Colleagues and Friends! Do not miss Europe’s Diversity and Business Congress 2012! Meet Europe’s leading Diversity and Inclusion top Executives and Beginners in Vienna, hear and learn more about what makes the European approach to Diversity and Inclusion so different from the American approach and how diversity is impacting business and turnover in Europe today. Christmas Special Take advantage of our Christmas Special and save 20% on the early birds fee! Register now and benefit from our Christmas special participation; pay [...]
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• European Diversity and Business Congress- EDIC 2012 Updates and Wishes

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  Dear D&I Colleagues and Friends! EDIC 2012 Program Preparations of our European Diversity and Business Congress –EDIC 2012 are getting more and more intense and taken a great shape! True to our tradition we have put together a very rich and diverse program with excellent speakers, locations, partners, framework program and some surprises! http://www.diversityleadership.eu/event/european-diversity-congress/#agenda Speakers online We are very proud and excited to inform you that a great majority of our speakers are now online. http://www.diversityleadership.eu/event/european-diversity-congress/#speakers Limited Christmas offer, safe up to 130 Euros off [...]
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• How to set company Diversity Targets and Agendas

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          Join us in Vienna and get aboard the sessions of the European Diversity and Bussiness Congress (EDIC) this time focusing on  Setting Diversity Targets and Agendas that drive inclusion in management and leadership. Have you ever thought your company could use improved or first-time diversity targets in order to adress the recurring bottlenecks and challenges linked to diversity? Setting Diversity Targets and Agendas means and requires much more than setting goals, having a diversity manager or running a campaign within [...]
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• Join us at the European Diversity & Inclusion Congress

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    Join us at the European Diversity & Inclusion Congress 1st -2nd  of March 2012 Vienna Overview of congress topics The European approach to managing inclusive diversity Work-life Flexibility: challenges, benefits and opportunities for companies and employees Making Work-life Flexibility an issue for management including CEOs Setting company diversity targets and quotas to drive inclusion in management Tapping into the talents pipeline of women and minorities for inclusive leadership in middle and top management The role of social network dynamics in driving inclusive diversity [...]
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• Last Call for Nominations – nominate an examplary company in a few simple steps

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    Nominations for the European Diversity Leadership Honours 2012 Company or client Nominations for the second edition of the European Diversity Leadership Honours are still open until January 25th. Nominate your company or your client in one of the four different categories including: 1) Multi-cultural Working Environment 2) Creative Leadership 3) Innovative research findings 4) Work-Life-Flexibility   It´s simple and quick. Follow the link below, fill in the form and send us your favourite company in the field of Diversity and Inclusion in Business: [...]
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• Learn more about the benefits of flexible working arrangements!

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          Benefit from over 40 top speakers from 10 European countries, Canada and the USA. 
EDIC patron: László Andor, EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Integration. Day one of EDIC 2012 on The Pan-European approach to managing inclusive diversity challenges and opportunities, will be focusing on flexible working arrangements as a crucial issue for both companies and employees, while showcasing comparative advantages from both perspectives. Take a look at our top international speakers for this panel: Making Work-Life Flexibility an [...]
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• LEARNING FROM THE BEST IN CLASS

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    Only 12 hours left to be able to take part in the European Diversity and Business Congress 2012 for only € 552, – instead of € 690, – saving €130, – on your investments. Benefit from over 40 top speakers from 10 European countries, Canada and the USA. 
 EDIC patron: László Andor, EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Integration. Click here to register: http://www.diversityleadership.eu/event/european-diversity-congress/#registration Europe’s leading D & I Confgress offers: • Six groundbreaking panels on crucial topics around managing diversity, [...]
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• News, News, News

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  Dear WDLS-EU Colleagues, Friends and Partners! I hope you are enjoying the summer season. It is time for great changes. After two very successful years of WDLS-EU, we are ready to take the next move with the same energy, enthusiasm and spirit. We are very proud to announce our next conference: The European Diversity and Inclusion Congress -EDIC! coming up soon! Kindly save the date! European Diversity & Inclusion Congress, Vienna 1st -2nd of March 2012 The European Diversity & Inclusion Congress (EDIC) is [...]
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• The congress that takes care of your diversity and business frustrations!

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          Only three more weeks left to join the European Diversity and Business Congress in 2012 for only € 690, – instead of € 790, – saving €100, – of your investments. Benefit from over 40 top speakers from 10 European countries, Canada and the USA with László Andor, EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Integration as EDIC 2012 Patron Click here to register: http://www.diversityleadership.eu/event/european-diversity-congress/#registration EDIC is much more than just a Congress. EDIC is unique because of the incomparable [...]
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• Time is running out, only 7 more days left to benefit from our limited special offer!

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  Only 7 more days left to benefit from our extended Christmas Special Offer!
Register on time and save up to €130 off our Early Birds registration fee.
Pay € 552 instead of €690. This special offer is limited and therefore early registration is highly recommended.
After January 20th you will be paying the standard conference rate of € 790. Click here to register:
http://www.diversityleadership.eu/event/european-diversity-congress/#registration Our offer:
• Europe’s unique and leading D&I conference with over 40 top speakers from over 10 European countries plus Canada and the US
• Six [...]
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• VON DEN BESTEN LERNEN.

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      Nur noch 20 Stunden, um am European Diversity and Business Congress 2012 um nur  € 552,- statt € 690,- teilzunehmen und so € 130,- zu sparen. Profitieren Sie von den über 40 Top-ReferentInnen aus 10 europäischen Ländern, Kanada und den USA.
 Schirmherrschaft: László Andor, EU-Kommissar für Beschäftigung, Soziales und Integration. Europas führende D&I-Konferenz bietet • Sechs bahnbrechende Keynotes fokussieren auf wesentliche Themen rund um Diversity Management, Integration und Business-Ergebnisse
• Drei Gedanken anregende Keynotes mit aufschlussreichen Erkenntnissen aus europäischer und kanadischer Perspektive
• Einen [...]
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• WIE VIEL DIVERSITÄT BRAUCHT EUROPA?

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    Presseinformation WIE VIEL DIVERSITÄT BRAUCHT EUROPA? European Diversity & Inclusion Congress von 1. bis 2. März 2012 in Wien Wien, 22.11.2011 – Die Wirtschaftskrise und ein latenter Fachkräftemangel in den letzten Jahren fordern Unternehmen weltweit dazu auf, neue Organisationskonzepte und Unternehmensstrategien zu entwickeln. In diesem Zusammenhang fällt immer häufiger der Begriff „Diversitätsmanagement“, über dessen Bedeutung und Wirkungsweise nach wie vor ein Informationsmangel herrscht. Der im März 2012 stattfindende European Diversity & Inclusion Congress – kurz EDIC – bringt internationale Diversitäts- und InklusionsexpertInnen nach [...]
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Team

• 

  Claudia Blaas

  Chief Operating Officer

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  Claudia Blaas is the Chief Operating officer of Diversity Leadership. Ms Blaas is responsible for the company´s Diversity and Inclusion projects, conferences, international relations, press releases and PR activities. She has extensively contributed to the creation and success of Europe´s leading Diversity Summit, held in Vienna, for two consecutive years.

  Originally from South Africa, Ms Blaas has lived in Johannesburg, Bologna, Triest and is currently based in Vienna. Her multicultural background, diverse international bonds and an open mindset are an important asset for her work.

  Ms. Blaas previously worked as a translator, as well as with diverse associations dealing with Diversity & Inclusion, migration, integration, women, refugees, asylum, intercultural issues etc. She holds a Masters Degree in Simultaneous and Consecutive Conference Interpreting and Translation.

• 

  Beatrice Achaleke

  CEO of Diversity Leadership and EDIC Conference Manager

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  Beatrice Achaleke is CEO of Diversity Leadership (DL) and Manager of the European Diversity & Inclusion Congress. Prior to founding DL Beatrice was the WDLS (World Diversity leadership Summit) strategic partner for Europe and WDLS-EU Organiser and Conference Manager.

  Beatrice is the Founding Executive Director of AFRA – “International Center for Black Women’s Perspectives” (www.blackwomencenter.org), Initiator of the 1st Black European Women’s Congress, Vienna 2007, and current president of the Black European Women’s Council (www.bewnet.eu).

  In 2008 Beatrice was the first Black Woman to stand for parliamentary elections in Austria. Recently the Award winning Blog “Black Women in Europe™: Power List 2010” featured Beatrice Achaleke as 3rd most powerful and influential black woman in Europe.

  Ms. Achaleke has many years of training experience in the fields of: diversity management, intercultural communication, lobbying and networking, mentorship programs, anti-racism, migration and integration, minorities and community empowerment as well as development policies. Beatrice Achaleke studied Sociology at the University of Vienna and Law at the University of Yaoundé, Cameroon.

  Beatrice is initiator of several award-winning projects in the field of intercultural competence and Diversity Management in Austria. She is author of several articles on the above-mentioned topics. Beatrice appears frequently on different programs of Austrian National Broadcasting Corporation (ORF), including other national radio and TV stations. Beatrice is a highly booked speaker both at national and international level. Beatrice’s recent speaking engagements include European Commission and EU Parliament conferences, the UN Minority Forum, and various Austrian based Organisations and Institutions.

  She is the publisher of the book “Voices of Black European Women 1, challenges, reflections and strategies from the Vienna Congress”, Vienna 2009, and of the annual report focusing on the situation of Black Austrians “Lagebericht Schwarzen Menschen in Österreich, Vienna, July 2010 and June 2011.

  Beatrice is a multiple award winner whose recent awards include the “World Diversity Innovation Award” from the World Diversity Leadership Council in Washington in September 2009, the “Make a Difference Award”, from Brainworks in July 2010, the “Miriam Makeba African Diva Award” for her engagement in the Empowerment of Black Women in Europe in March 2009, the “MIA Award” 2008 for her humanitarian and social engagement in March 2008. Beatrice received the Official and Honorary Decoration of the Federal Republic of Austria for her commitment to Intercultural Dialog in September 2008. Beatrice is mother of two children.

• 

  David Wögerer

  Web and Print Designer Head of THESIGNGROUP

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  David Wögerer is the web and print designer of the World Diversity Leadership Summit Europe. David’s task is contributing to the promotion the corporate identity.
  He is a professional web developer and media designer. In 2003 Mr. Wögerer founded the enterprise THESIGNGROUP near Graz, and has since then been successfully developing media designs and concepts for web and print media. Since 2007 he has been collaborating in the field of web and print media together with Beatrice Achaleke by supporting her with her projects and design ideas.

• 

  Nina Hojjat-Apostolidis

  EDIC 2012 Sponsoring

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  Raised in Greece in a bilingual (Greek-German) family, Nina learnt about the impact of cultures at an early stage.

  She studied Social Anthropology at the University of Vienna, her master thesis analyses facets in the field of Ethno Medicine.  She has working experience at the United Nations and was research assistant at the Academic Institute of Media and Communication.

  At the Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research Nina was responsible for the coordination of EU multilateral programmes. Furthermore Nina worked in the field of Direct Marketing and successfully completed the 1st Business Certificate.

Draft Agenda (may still be subject to changes)

European Diversity and Business Congress (EDIC)

High-level international forum for business executives, media and research institutions

Vienna,  1st – 2nd of March 2012

Day 1

Day 2

Featured Speakers

• 

  László Andor

  EU's Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, Hungary/Belgium

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  László Andor has been the EU’s Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion since February 2010. Between 2005 and 2010 he represented Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Croatia on the Board of Directors of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in London. Previously he was an associate professor at Corvinus University of Budapest and King Sigismund College, editor of journals, and advisor to the Hungarian Prime Minister.

  Hungarian national, Mr Andor graduated from the University of Economic Sciences in Budapest in 1989, studied at George Washington University, Washington, D.C., and earned a Master’s degree in Development Economics at the University of Manchester in 1993 as a British Council Fellow. He holds a Ph.D in Economics from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences.

• 

  Rudolf Hundstorfer

  Austrian Minister of Social Affairs and Consumer Protection, Austria

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  In 2008 Rudolf Hundstorfer was sworn in as Minister of Social Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Republic of Austria.
  Rudolf Hundstorfer started his trade union activities as youth spokesman in the administration of the City of Vienna. As from 1975, Mr. Hundstorfer was responsible for Youth Affairs in the Union for Municipal Employees (Gewerkschaft der Gemeindebediensteten – GdG) where he became an expert on organisational questions before being elected secretary general in 1983 and in 1998 chairman of the “Landesgruppe Wien” (Vienna’s faction at the GdG). In 2001, he was elected Executive Chairman of the GdG. Mr. Hundstorfer served as Chairman of the Social Democratic Trade Unionists (Fraktion Sozialdemokratischer GewerkschafterInnen – FSG) from 2003 to 2006 and was elected Chairman of the GdG in March 2007. Rudolf Hundstorfer was member of Vienna’s Provincial Diet and City Council from 1990 to 2007 and the first Chairman of Vienna’s City Council from 1995 to 2007. Furthermore in 2006, he followed Fritz Verzetnitsch as executive president of the ÖGB and became its president as well as member of the executive committee in 2007 with a key responsibility for social affairs.
  Rudolf Hundstorfer was born in 1951 in Vienna, is married and has three children.

• 

  Brigitte Jank

  Entrepreneur and President of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, Austria

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  Brigitte Jank is a Viennese Entrepreneur, an officially appointed and sworn real estate expert and has been President of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce and Industry since 2004. She is also chairwoman of the Vienna branch of the Union of Enterprises and of the University Council of MODUL University Vienna. She is Deputy Chairwoman of the Vienna University of Applied Arts-Council and of the Soccer Club FK Austria Wien.

• 

  Maria Rauch-Kallat

  Former Federal Minister with more than 25 years of experience in politics, Austria

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  Maria Rauch-Kallat was Minister for Environment, Youth and Families from 1992 to 1995 and Federal Minister for Health and Women in the Austrian Federal Government from 2003 to 2007.

  Through these activities and her work as Secretary General of the Austrian People’s Party (1995-2003), as well as being a member of the Austrian National Assembly, the Austrian Federal Council, the Vienna State Parliament and City Council (1983-2008), she has extensive negotiation experience and access to a close network of national and international contacts. Her versatile abilities are based on her training in teaching and psychology, including many years of work in the teaching profession, adult education and business. She also holds numerous other certificates.

  With her two companies mrk diversity management gmbh and  mrkConsult and as a partner involved in Public Interest, she is primarily active in strategic consulting and communications for national and international companies..

  Maria Rauch-Kallat is President of Club alpha , Mentory Club, TechWomen  and Vicepresident of the women’s organisation of the European People’s Party. She is also President of the Austrian Paralympics Committee as well as of the Association Austria-Hungary, the Austro-Egyptian Association and the Austro-Tunisian Association. Maria Rauch-Kallat is among others also holder of the ‘Great golden order of merit for services rendered to the Republic of Austria’.

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  Veronika Haslinger

  Member of the Management Board RAIFFEISEN-HOLDING NIEDERÖSTERREICH-WIEN, Austria

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  Veronika Haslinger is currently a member of the management board at RAIFFEISEN-HOLDING NIEDERÖSTERREICH-WIEN reg. Gen.m.b.H. She is responsible for equity investment management and taxes. Veronika Haslinger started her career at RAIFFEISEN-HOLDING NIEDERÖSTERREICH-WIEN as equity investment manager and later became group and division manager in the same department. Before joining Raiffeisen she worked as an associate in various law firms.
  
  Veronika Haslinger is currently also a member of the management board and the supervisory board of various other Austrian corporations.

  
  

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  Judit Havasi

  Judit HAVASI Member of the Management Board Vienna Insurance Group, Hungary/Austria

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  Judit Havasi is currently member of the Management Board of the Vienna Insurance Group “Wiener Städtische Versicherung AG”. Ms Havasi started her career in 2000 at Union Vienna Insurance Group Biztosító (formerly Gloria Swisslife) in Hungary, a fully owned subsidiary of Vienna Insurance Group Wiener Städtische AG. Before becoming a member of the Management Board she held the position of Authorised Officer. Judit studied Law in Vienna and Budapest.

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  Markus Felmayer

  Vice President Sales, IBM Austria

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  Markus Felmayer was born in Vienna in 1958 and has been grown up in different countries like Austria, Brazil and Germany where he also finished school. He then returned to Austria to study Business Administration at the University of Economics in Vienna where he earned a bachelor degree. After university he joined IBM Austria in 1984 where he has been working in sales and management positions in various departments, including an assignment in the European headquarter in Paris. In 1996 he joined Silicon Graphics Austria to take the position as country manager. In 2000 Markus Felmayer re-joined IBM Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa as Business Development Executive. He then managed the CEE Financial Services Sector. In past years he was located in Dubai to lead all sales centers in that region. In 2011 Markus Felmayer took over position as VP Sales IBM Austria.

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  John Barrett

  Canadian Ambassador to the Republic of Austria Permanent Representative to the International Organisations in Vienna, Canada/Austria

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  Mr. Barrett is currently Ambassador to the Republic of Austria and Permanent Representative to the International Organisations in Vienna. Previously he was Policy Officer for the international Security and Arms Control Affairs Bureau, Department of External Affairs and subsequently took on the same role for the NATO Political Affairs Division. Between 1994 and 1999 he was Director of Policy Planning & Speechwriting and of the Political Affairs Division, NATO International Staff. Afterwards Mr. Barrett became Acting Director of Public Policy of the Department of National Defence, from 200 to 2003 he was Senior Communications Advisor and Speechwriter to the Governor General of Canada. In 2004 and 2005 Mr. Barrett was Director of the Communications and Consultations Secretariat of the Privy Council Office and subsequently Director of the Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Division of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. Before taking on his role as Ambassador, Mr. Barrett was Director General of the Strategic Planning, Resources and Coordination Bureau of the non-proliferation and disarmament Division of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.
  Mr. Barrett achieved his B.A. in Political Science and his M.A. in Political Theory and International Relations from the University of Toronto. He achieved a PhD at the London School of Economics and carried out postdoctoral research at the University in Tübingen, Germany and the University of British Columbia. Mr. Barrett fluently speaks English, French and German. He was born 1951 in Toronto, Canada, is married and father of two.

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  Martin Eichtinger

  Ambassador Director General for Cultural Policy Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, Austria

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  Martin Eichtinger was born 1961 in Graz, Austria, J.D. , postgraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University in Bologna/Italy and Paris. He joined the Austrian Foreign Service in 1986 and served as personal secretary to the Foreign Minister. His diplomatic assignments included Mexico and Washington, D.C., where he headed the Austrian Press and Information Service from 1992-1999. Between 1999 and 2007, he was Chief of Cabinet of the Austrian Special Representative for Payments to Former Forced and Slave Laborers of the Nazi-Regime, Director for International Affairs at the Austrian Federation of Industry, manager in a private company, Chief of Staff and later Secretary General of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Economics and Labor. From 2007 to 2010, he served as Austrian Ambassador to Romania and the Republic of Moldova. Since July 2010, he has been Director General for Cultural Policy at the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs.

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  Andy Moffat

  Human Resources Director Aviva Europe

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  Andy joined Aviva in April 2001 as HR Director for Aviva Group Centre and became Human Resources Director of Aviva Europe in July 2007.

  He has over 25 years’ experience in international human resources in the IT, Telecommunications and Financial Services industries, with a depth of experience in change and transition management.

  Andy has held senior HR positions in IBM, Intelsat and Teleglobe International and played a leading role in the integration of AmerUs into the Aviva Group in 2006/7. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, has a masters degree from Glasgow University and is a postgraduate of Aston University.

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  Marcus Labbé

  President of DVAI (dvai-ev.de), Managing Partner LABBÉ & CIE, Germany

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  Marcus Labbé is President of DVAI, a unique European initiative that fosters qualification and certification of Supervisory Boards Members. As a Professor in Augsburg he deals with issues of International Corporate Governance. As Managing Partner of the premium leadership boutique LABBÉ & CIE. (labbe-cie.eu) he is specialized in recruiting at corporate management and supervisory board level. Prof. Labbé is convinced that increasing (not only gender focused) diversity in Management and Supervisory Boards is worth the effort, but focus shall be on “Quality beats Diversity”.

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  Gus Takkale

  International Change Catalyst & Speaker, Canada

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  Gus Takkale is an international Change Catalyst. He is the author of the best-selling book the “5C’s of Change” and the newly-released book, “The Road”. Gus is the President of CAPS (Canadian Association of Professional Speakers) in Ottawa and a member of the Global Speakers Federation. He is a Business graduate and NLP Practitioner, bringing along two decades of world-wide corporate experience spanning from North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. He was the Regional Head of HR & Transformation for software giant SAP and a Director at HILTI, one of the world’s largest power tools company. Prior to that, Gus transformed many companies as a Management Consultant with Arthur Anderson.

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  Beatrice Achaleke

  Owner & CEO - Beatrice Achaleke DiversityLeadership & Consulting e.U.; EDIC Founder & Conference Manager, Austria/Kamerun

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  Beatrice Achaleke is CEO of Beatriece Achaleke DiversityLeadership & Consulting e.U., Founder and Manager of the European Diversity & Inclusion Congress. Prior to founding her own company Beatrice was the WDLS (World Diversity leadership Summit) strategic partner for Europe and WDLS-EU Organiser and Conference Manager.

  Beatrice Achaleke is an innovative starter and an outstanding international leader of diversity and inclusion. In additional to her skills and competencies in the areas of D&I, community empowerment, Human and Women’s Right, equality campaigns, cross cultural communication etc, she is foresighted in detecting future themes, talented in putting this into action, committed to impacting positive changes in people, organisations and society, devoted to combining it all with an excellent touch of Humour. She is focused, passionate and dedicated to equalities. Her greatest passion is driving diversity in middle and top management in Europe. She is an acclaimed change, motivational and a truly inspirational speaker. She will continue to be at the forefront of diversity, inclusion and Business on the global stage for many years to come.

  Beatrice a working mum, multiple award winner, a book writer and publisher. The first edition of her first book “Vielfalt statt Einfalt, Wo ich herkomme” published in November 2011 is currently sold out!

Speakers

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  Alletta Gräfin von Hardenberg

  General Manger, Charta der Vielfalt, Germany

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  Aletta Gräfin von Hardenberg is General Manager of the German „Charta der Vielfalt“. This association wants to drive the diversity spirit forward in companies and institutions of the public sector. State Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel supports the Charta. From July 2000 until February 2011 she was responsible for Deutsche Bank’s Diversity Management in Germany and in the global Diversity Team she had a leading role in forming the diversity strategy of Deutsche Bank. She started her career at Deutsche Bank 1980 and worked in several branches in Germany, including a four-year-assignment at New York

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  Angela Rittig

  Manager Corporate Communications Xing

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  Angela Rittig (32) joined XING as Manager Corporate Communications in February 2007.

  The topic of “women and networks” plays a central role in Angela’s work. As a networking advisor for business women she utilizes her vast experience working for a professional online network to illustrate the causes and effects of female networking behavior and to advise women on how to use networks to boost their career.

  Prior to moving to XING AG, Angela worked in various Asian countries. In New Delhi, India, she was responsible for setting up a European consulting team for the biomedical and health care department at the Gerson Lehrman Group.

  She studied Applied Media Studies at Ilmenau Technical University in Germany where she graduated in 2004.

  Angela enjoys getting involved in social entrepreneurship projects. She just graduated from the International Navigator program run by Common Purpose, a leadership development organi

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  Barbara Jascht

  Entrepreneur Mindset System for Success

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  Barbara Jascht is a highly demanded Leadership coach and small business expert who works based on the latest results of brain research and neuroscience. She is the founder of “Mindset System for Success” focused on showing people how they can achieve internal wellbeing and external wealth with exactly who they are and what they are most passionate about. She has dedicated her life to helping individuals, teams and organizations to create and master change. She works with companies like A1 Telekom, Siemens, Fiat group, DHL, Bosch International and hundreds of executives and entrepreneurs. Barbara is known for her authentic and motivating speeches driven by the deep belief that everybody can change his/her life and make the world a better place to live in.

  Barbara studied psychology at the university of Vienna. Before she studied classical piano at the Bruckner conservatory of Linz and played for the last two decades all over Europe as a swing pianist. She is a certified business trainer and systemic coach and has a lot of additional certifications.

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  Cassandra D. Caldwell

  Founder/CEO of the International Society Diversity & Inclusion Professionals

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  Cassandra D. Caldwell is founder/CEO of the International Society of Diversity & Inclusion Professionals, the 1st comprehensive global association for diversity & inclusion professionals in the public and private sectors. She’s an internationally renowned consultant, trainer, entrepreneur, and scholar. An 18-year leader in the diversity & inclusion field, she has facilitated D&I initiatives at global, national, and local organizations including: GlaxoSmithKline, Sodexo, TNS, 4-H, NCR, The United Negro College Fund, USDA, North Carolina State University, Department of Education, and eWomenNetwork.

  Previously, she was an assistant professor and assistant director of the executive master of public administration program at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Department of Public Administration. She taught courses in leadership, public policy, principles in public management, HR, nonprofit management, organizational theory & behavior, and research methods.

  Ms Caldwell earned a doctoral degree from Ohio State University, and a master’s from NCCU, and a bachelor’s from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

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  Christian Baldia

  President & CEO Constellation Strategy & Analytical Services

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  Christian Baldia is President of Constellation Strategy & Analytical Services (www.ConstellationSAS.com), a cutting-edge management consulting firm that provides breakthrough solutions to major organizational challenges by uncovering and analyzing the underlying human networks that are at the heart of every company, government agency and NGO.

  Christian previously served as a Managing Director at Virtcom Consulting.  Prior to that, he was a Senior Financial/Economic Analyst for the Federal Reserve. He also worked as an investment banker in mergers and acquisitions at Butler, Chapman & Co. and in municipal finance at UBS.  In addition, Christian served in the Clinton Administration as a Senior Policy Analyst in the Treasury Department and as a staff member for the White House.

  Christian earned a B.Phil. degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a Masters degree from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.

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  Christine Marek

  Management Consultant Member of the Austrian parliament

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  Christine is currently a Management Consultant and also a Member of the Austrian parliament. She is furthermore initiator and organiser of the “MiA Award” (Award for multicultural Women) and of „hohe.haus.musik”, parliamentary choir (parliament and federal assembly) of all political factions. During her political career which began in 2000 at the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, Christine was State Secretary for the Federal Ministry of Economy, Family and Youth and between 2010 and 2011 chairwoman of the Viennese political faction ÖVP. Prior to that, while working at FREQUENTIS in Austria, Christine focused on issues such as: more flexible working time models, organisation of childcare, measures for the balance between family and career, both male and female, and social engagement within a company.

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  David V. Stuart

  Founder & president of Spring Hill Communication

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  David V. Stuart is the founder and president of Spring Hill Communication. An award-winning consultant, writer and speaker, he specializes in employee engagement through integrated media: print, video, online and face-to-face communication. Since 1997, his company has helped organizations communicate with diverse audiences by reaching across barriers of language, culture, educational background, and job types. Spring Hill has created multilingual, multicultural media for clients including Kraft Foods, IDEAL Industries, CF Industries, American Funds, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, ABN AMRO and others.  David received Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts degrees from Brigham Young University (Provo, Utah). David was a consultant, manager and media developer with Hewitt Associates for nine years. He has spoken at Fortune magazine’s 401(k) seminars; regional, national and international professional conferences; and corporate sales meetings. He serves as a member of the Board of Directors of United Way of Lake County.

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  Davor Sertic

  CEO of UnitCargo and chairman of the test commission for forwarding managers

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  Mr Sertic, who is originally from Coratia, completed his studies in Economics at the University of Vienna. In 1989 he started his professional career in the field of logistics and in 2004 MR Sertic founded his own transport company, UnitCargo. Today UnitCargo, is one of Austria’s leading transport companies with its headquarters in Vienna. The key ingredient to UnitCargo´s great success is the multicultural team it is made up of and the 15 languages that are represented in the company. UnitCargo is also based in Slovakia and Turkey and operates in 40 countries ranging from the Scandinavian to Azerbaijan, Syria and Iraq. In 2010 UnitCargo earned the Diversity Award “Diversity Preis” from the Austrian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for its exemplary approach in the field of apprenticeship training.

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  Dorothea Brozek

  Life-Coach & corporate consultant

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  Dorothea Brozek graduated in Slavic Studies, Political Science and Journalism at the University of Vienna. She is a certified Life-Coach and also works in the field of sexual education. Brozek is a counseling supervisor and corporate consultant with a focus on Diversity Management. She is specialized on the core dimension of disability and provides training, coaching, supervision within personal and organizational development.
  Since the 90ties she has been working nationally and internationally as a speaker and trainer on the topics of disability, independent living, equal opportunities and diversity. Building on that Dorothea Brozek founded her own consulting firm and extended its offer to the field of web communication.

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  Elisa Aichinger

  Human Capital Consultant Deloitte Consulting GmbH

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  Elisa joined Deloitte Human Capital in 2008 with special focus on Search & Selection as well as HR flexibility management. Since 2010 she has been leading a team of consultants which provide organisations with solutions to deal with fluctuation in demand and capacity in a meaningful and labour market-appropriate way, as well as increasing organisational flexibility. Elisa focuses on Diversity Management, particularly Productive Ageing and Gender Mainstreaming, within consultancy projects. Previous to her joining Deloitte she has been working in the field of training and development where she designed training concepts for corporate clients.

  Elisa holds a Masters degree in Economics and Business Administration.

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  Erich Neuwirth

  Country Human Resources Manager, TNT Express, Austria

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  Erich Neuwirth is a seasoned professional in the field of HR for more than 20 years now. In his current position as Country Human Resources Manager at TNT Express (Austria) he is responsible for HR & IT and acts as Press-Speaker for the Company. TNT Express (Austria) uses Diversity Management (DiM) as part of the HR-Strategy since 1998 and has won several Awards regarding their Diversity approach like the HuMan Award (2003, 2005) the HEWITT Best Employer Award (2004, 2005) the TRIGOS Special Award for DiM (2008) and the MERITUS Award (2011).

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  Fella Imalhayene

  Promotion, Charte de la Diversité, France

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  Fella Imalhayene is in charge of the promotion of the French diversity Charter since September 2005. The French Charter is hosted by IMS, a NGO that supports companies in the implementation of their social corporate responsibility.

  Fella has created tools for implementing diversity policies into SME’s and big companies and she has worked on surveys and studies showing and analysing the actions of the signatories. She has also created a network of local partners that promote the charter in every region of France. Over the last six year, she was able to get an overview of the actions taken by French companies toward diversity. She graduated with a bachelor of philosophy and a master’s degree of management and business in 2004.

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  Gabriele Sauberer

  Director International Network for Terminology

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  Gabriele Sauberer is a pioneer in diversity management in Austria and world-wide. She holds a PhD in Russian Linguistics and finalized post graduate studies in European Project Management, International Management and Diversity Management.

  From 2007 to 2010 Gabriele introduced diversity and cross-cultural management at the Centre for Translation Studies of the University of Vienna as teacher and researcher for interdisciplinary studies.

  In 2007, she initiated the 1st international Diversity Summer School and the first standard in diversity management, the Austrian ÖNORM S 2501 “Diversity management – General guideline on principles, systems and supporting techniques”, published in 2008.

  Gabriele is an ECQA Certified Innovation Manager and European Project Manager, ECQA standing for European Certification and Qualification Association (http://www.ecqa.org).

  Gabriele is Director of the International Network for Terminology (TermNet), Quality Lead auditor for the European Standard EN 15038 „Translation Services – Service Requirements“ and expert in standardization committees for Terminology, Translation, Information and Knowledge Management, Diversity management and Corporate Social Responsibility.

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  Harald Katzmair

  Founder and Director at FAS.Research, Vienna/New York

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  Harald Katzmair, born in 1969, is the founder and director at FAS.research, a Social Network Analytics & Strategies firm located in Vienna and New York. Over the last 12 years Harald has developed a unique and proprietary set of tools and technologies to empower decision makers in the areas of Public Affairs, Key Account Management, Stakeholder Relations, HR and Organizational

  Development to navigate through the increasing complexities of our connected world.

  In hundreds of international engagements Harald’s visionary understanding of networks has helped Fortune 500 clients (HP, Xerox, Kodak, Allianz, Pfizer, Abbott , UPS etc.) as well as leading Non‐Profits (Packard Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, GTZ etc.) to reach their goals. Harald and his international team understand the patterns of interrelations and influence and turns market and organizational data into network maps and maps into strategy.

  Harald holds a degree in Social Science and Philosophy (University of Vienna), is lecturer, visiting scholar, and invited guest speaker at various universities (Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, Vienna University of Economics and Business Administration etc.). His main focus are the areas of networks and resilience. Because of the increasing unpredictability of our economic future, Harald’s mission is to provide new means to empower executives and their organizations to make robust decisions and to enhance their leadership capabilities for resilient and effective action.

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  Harish Bhayani

  Senior Partner PRM Diversity Consultants

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  Harish Bhayani is Senior Partner at PRM Diversity Consultants, which he founded in 2001 after 18 years working in large corporations such as Esso and Arthur Andersen.  PRM’s role is to help its clients to develop their unique diversity objectives and strategies and achieve them in a sustainable fashion.  As a specialist in the subject for the last decade Harish has worked with clients extensively on diversity consulting, training and research projects.

  Harish’s clients typically say his “insights and views are great and compelling” and that he “has an unusual but extremely useful perspective, clearly linking diversity to achieving business benefits”.  They include Allianz, Atkins, Aviva, Balfour Beatty, BP, British Army, BT, Cabinet Office, Cisco, Costain, Derwent Living, English Partnerships, Gallions Housing Association, HM Prison Service, Institute of Physics, Investors In People, Metropolitan Police Service, Mott MacDonald, Norman Broadbent, Northrop Grumman, Novo Nordisk, Parsons Brinckerhoff, Provident Financial, Prudential, Royal Navy, Signet, Skanska, Tesco, Vinci, Yorkshire Water.

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  Isabelle Kürschner

  Consultant Catalyst Europe

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  Isabelle Kürschner, Ph.D., has extensive expertise on issues of women and gender in the context of corporate governance, organizational culture, and work-family-effectiveness. As Catalyst Europe Consultant she provides analytical support to Catalyst member companies in Germany and Austria interested in advancing women. In this role she frequently speaks to corporate and public audiences on topics including women’s leadership and advancement, talent management strategies, and barriers to women’s corporate advancement. Dr. Kürschner completed her undergraduate studies at Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen, and McGill University, Montréal. She received her master’s degree and her doctorate from the Catholic University of Eichstätt.

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  Julia D. Tzanakakis

  Associate Director - Diversity & Inclusiveness Ernst & Young

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  Julia studied International Business and Intercultural Studies – with a major in Arab Nations – in Heilbronn/ Germany and at the American University in Cairo. She started her career working in Dubai before moving to Accenture and later to Deutsche Bank in Frankfurt. From 2006 to 2009 she worked for National Australia Bank in Melbourne, overseeing the workforce and leadership development, as well as a broad spectrum of projects in the organizational development, change management and employee engagement space. Since November 2009 she is responsible for the Diversity & Inclusiveness Strategy at Ernst & Young in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Julia is Vice-President of the International Society for Diversity Management.

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  Katharina Mallich

  Head of the Department for Human Resources Development Medical University of Vienna

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  Since 2004 Katharina Mallich is working for the Medical University of Vienna. She is head of the Department for Human Resources Development. Katharina Mallich holds a doctorate in business psychology, a master’s degree in “Coaching & Organisational Development” and is certified industrial psychologist. Her tasks include the following:  demand-oriented and target-group-specific advancement and promotion of employees, further development of transparency of appointment procedures, the implementation of quality management of appraisal interviews, as well as the establishment of attractive opportunities for young academics. Furthermore the networking of employees for the purpose of cooperative exchange and the implementation of a diversity management at the Medical University of Vienna is a great concern to Katharina Mallich.

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  Kenneth Dubin

  Visiting Professor, University Carlos III, Madrid Executive trainer

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  Kenneth A. Dubin is Visiting Professor in the Department of Social Law at the University Carlos III, Madrid and Adjunct Professor in Human Resources and Strategy at IE Business School. He is a specialist in the comparative political economy of work in the advanced industrial countries and the politics of labor market regulation.  His current research projects focus on the legal, organizational and cultural obstacles to new human resource strategies in the context of the current economic crisis.  He combines his academic responsibilities with consulting, executive training and public speaking on a range of human resource issues including high performance work systems and the development of sustainable competitive advantage through corporate social responsibility and diversity programs. Ken received his B.A. with High Honors and High Distinction from Wesleyan University (Connecticut) and his Masters and Ph.D. in political science from the University of California, Berkeley. His research has been supported by fellowships from the Fulbright Foundation, the German Marshall Fund and the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation.

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  Knut Weltlich

  Group Representative for Employees with Disabilities Bertelsmann AG

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  Mr Knut Weltlich is the Group Representative for Employees with Disabilities at Bertelsmann AG, which is considered the world’s largest media company based in Germany operating in more than 50 countries and counting more than 100,000 employees. Mr Weltlich is a professional sound editor and the inventor of various devices and aids to assist people with disabilities such as the standing wheelchair, which helps wheelchair users reach higher shelves; a light -signalling system that lets deaf employees know when they have received an e-mail; or the shuttle car, which allows a wheelchair user to enter a car through the hatch and roll right up to the steering wheel. One of Mr Weltlich´s most recent and outstanding achievements in 2010 was the creation of “Deaf Space Radio”, a unique radio station for the deaf with live reports on the Internet accompanied by simultaneous translations in sign language. Mr Weltlich recently received international recognition in a best-practice report by the European Commission. In a report on efforts to combat discrimination against people with disabilities, Bertelsmann, along with 27 other companies, presented its initiatives for model workplaces that are accessible to disabled persons. Mr Weltlich has held numerous lectures in various countries on issues related to the integration and inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace. In 2006, as one of three delegates from the European business community, Mr Weltlich upon invitation of the US government participated in the first trans-Atlantic exchange of experiences in employing people with disabilities. Mr Weltlich is also the Ambassador of the German Paralympic Committee. In 2009 he was awarded the German TV Media-Award.

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  Manfred Wondrak

  Co-initiator, Charta der Vielfalt, Austria

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  Manfred J. Wondrak is the owner and Managing Director of Pauser&Wondrak Diversity Consulting GmbH, one of the co-initiators of the Austrian Diversity Charter and a diversity management and inclusion training and consultancy service. Manfred has many years of experience as a manager in international corporations, such as Citigroup, ÖIAG and Austrian Industries. He is an expert in corporate diversity management, strategy development, project management, training and mentoring. Additional focuses are on measuring diversity and the core dimensions of ‘ethnic origin, age and sexual orientation’. Manfred is also a board member of egma – the European Gay and Lesbian Manager Association and leader of the working group “measuring the benefits of diversity” at the EU-Diversity Charters Platform. He holds a master’s degree of general management and numerous other certificates.

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  Manuel Bräuhofer

  CEO Brainworker

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  Manuel Bräuhofer is the founder and CEO of Brainworker – Community Marketing, the first Diversity-Marketing Agency in Austria. He is an expert especially for ethnic marketing in the Turkish and the Balkan Community. He counsels public institutions and companies from different branches, gives lectures and organizes personal and virtual platforms on this topic.

  Mr. Bräuhofer was born in Vienna in 1984 and started his self-employed carrier in the age of 21. The union between his Turkish father and his Austrian mother was the foundation for his multicultural and open minded point of view. For him diversity is not only a strategy but rather an attitude towards life.

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  Margarethe Bitzer

  Vice President of DCÖ- Diversity Club Austria and Management Consultant

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  Margarethe Bitzer is an Austrian Management consultant. Grete has been focusing on the implementation of Employees Concepts (Employer- and Employee Branding for small and medium sizes enterprises in Austria). Since 2007 she has been a consultant at “Brainworker Community – Marketing”, Austria´s first Diversity Marketing Agency. Grete has 15 years of experience in staff management, change management processes & HR working in the retail business in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, as well as 5 years intercultural experiences as Production Controller and Responsible for Purchases in the F.E. / China, Korea and Hong Kong. Since 2012 Grete is Vice- president of the DCÖ – Diversity Club Austria. She is the proud mother of a 11 year old son.

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  Marialena Fernandes

  Marialena Fernandes Professor, Vienna University of Music and Performing Arts, Austria

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  Marialena Fernandes is Professor at the Vienna University of Music and Performing Arts and Professor of Piano and Chamber Music at the Joseph Haydn Conservatory Eisenstadt (Austria) since 1991. Marialena is Artistic Director and International Program Curator in Crossover projects, in which she incorporates classical, jazz and world music fusions with an emphasis on Improvisation enabling intercultural exchanges between Students, Teachers and Audiences. In 2010 she did a research sabbatical as Faculty Member and worked as Scholar at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign USA. Since 2007 she has been organising the Series Cycle „Uno, Due, Tre“ in Vienna Musikverein. She gives Workshops and run Masterclasses around the globe and has been Member of Jury at International Music Competitions. Fernandes has initiated several Projects with Women Composers and Gender themes.

  Marialena is a truly global artist who has performed as Solo artist, with the Chamber Music and Orchestra in many European capitals, in USA, Australia, Africa and Asia. She is a regular guest on Annual TV and Radio broadcasts. Born in Mumbai, Marialena acquired her Licentiate Diploma from the Royal Schools of Music in 1967. Marialena holds a degree in psychology from the University of Mumbai/India.  In 1972 she received a scholarship for further musical education at the present University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna. In 1975 she earned a Diploma in Piano and Chamber Music Performance with distinctions and a Master of Art Education (Magister artium) in 1988. Marialena was honoured in 2008 with the “MIA Award” for Woman with intercultural background for her groundbreaking achievements in the field of Art and Culture. Presently Marialena is working on a Doctoral Thesis on the theme „The Song of Goa“ which is about her hometown in India.

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  Matthias Fenkart

  Discrimination commissioner of Austrian Deaf Association at equalizent

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  equalizent proudly signed as one of the first the charta of diversity. To us diversity is not only an utmost concern incorporated within our general principle, but also maintains a regularly implemented measurement by our diversity score card. Signing the charta proves our acknowledgement of diversity towards our staff and stake holders delivering one message: celebrate variety!
  Matthias Fenkart is officer with procurement and course manager at equalizent. He is responsible for e.g. project development, standardization of processes and planning training programs. He has extensive experience as trainer, consultant and as counsellor. He is an expert in communications and accessibility, including public relations. His current functions includes his role as discrimination commissioner of Austrian Deaf Association.

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  Michael Privot

  Director ENAR – European Network Against Racism aisbl

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  Michael holds a Ph.D. in Languages and Literature from the University of Liège (Belgium). He joined ENAR – the European Network Against Racism – in 2006 as Campaign & Networking Officer and became its Executive Director in 2010. Michael has expertise in community and organisational dynamics as well as identity issues of European Muslims. He is member of the consultancy group “Expert-Is” in charge of advising local authorities and community institutions about projects with a faith-based dimension. He is co-founder of the Holistic Diversity Management Certificate™ of the ENAR Foundation.

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  Michael Sicher

  Executive coach BUSYPEOPLECOACHING Founder, "CEOs on Wheels"

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  Michael Sicher is an executive coach for BUSYPEOPLE and founder of “CEOs on Wheels”. After studying business informatics at the University of Vienna he worked as Head of IT and as IT-consultant for many years before starting his own business as executive coach and trainer. He brings his experience as someone using a wheelchair to the world of business to change some perspectives.

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  Nadine Vogel

  President of Springboard Consulting LLC

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  Nadine Vogel is President of Springboard Consulting LLC, Springboard collaborates with multinational corporations, Federal governments and national agencies on initiatives to successfully mainstream disability in the workforce, workplace and marketplace.  Springboard also produces the nationally acclaimed Disability Matters Awards Banquet & Conference.

  Prior to Springboard, Nadine spent twenty years as a corporate executive. She has received numerous awards, appears in the media regularly and is recognized as a powerful motivational speaker.

  Nadine is the author of Dive In, Springboard into the Profitability, Productivity and Potential of the Special Needs Workforce. She resides in NJ with her husband and two daughters, both of whom have special needs.

   

• 

  Nadja Schefzig

  Corporate consultant & director of kompetenzkreis

  More Details

  Nadja Schefzig graduated in philosophy. She is a corporate consultant specialized in Diversity Management and Public Relations, a trainer for communication and conflict management and a business coach. Since 2011 Nadja, together with Rotija Dumpelnik, is the managing director of kompetenzkreis and since 2009 board member of “Initiative Minderheiten”, an NPO engaged in minority equal opportunity politics.

   

  Special expertise in Diversity Management: training for staff members and executive managers, organizational development, Diversity controlling (Diversity Score Card), internal and external communications and Diversity Marketing.

  Expertise in Diversity Core Dimensions: Gender- und Queer Mainstreaming, inclusion of intercultural workforce, inclusion of staff members with disabilities.

• 

  Norbert Pauser

  More Details

  Norbert Pauser is the co-owner and Managing Director of Pauser&Wondrak Unterneh- mensberatung OG (www.pauser-wondrak.at) which offers consultancy services with regard to Diversity Management, diversity projects and diversity trainings. While Nor- bert was studying theoretical pedagogics at the Vienna University, he was developing an unusual project in 2001 called equalizent, which set new standards in adult education
  for deaf and hard of hearing customers (in Austrian Sign Language) in Vienna. He left equalizent (which had over 30 employees by the time) in 2008 to start his own Diversity business with Manfred Wondrak.
  Norbert was one of the first experts to develop standards for Diversity in Austria: he was head of the consortium ‚2501 Diversity Management‘ at the ÖNORM Institute; (Implementation of Diversity Management in Organizations); in 2005 he was awarded for creating a Diversity Scorecard according to ‚Social Responsible Manager of the Year 2005‘; Mr. Pauser founded a Diversity Quality Circle with recognized experts in the Field of Diversity. He is also board member of FEDM – Forum European Diversity Management and board member of AGPRO – Austrian gay professionals.

• 

  Oilid Mountassar

  Founder of Diversee

  More Details

  Prior to founding Diversee, Oilid have served as regional manager for Cummins inc. in Middle East and Africa responsible for sales and marketing after having held responsibilities for the Competitive intelligence and market strategy for Europe, Middle East and Africa.  His main areas of expertise are international channel management and business Strategy positioning him as a promoter of a holistic result driven approach to diversity and Inclusion.

  He has lived in Tunisia, UK and France and has led projects in countries like Egypt, Saudi or Libya amongst others.

  Oilid is a graduate of the University of Science Pierre et Marie Curie in Paris and holds a Bachelors in Robotics and a Masters in Business.

• 

  Peter Majerčík

  Head of Business Development Austria/CEE ICUnet.AG

  More Details

  Peter Majerčík is Head of Business Development for Austria and CEE at ICUnet.AG as well as manager of the Viennese subsidiary. In addition, he is responsible for the conception and delivery of intercultural training and consulting for Slovakia, Czech Republic, Poland and the Ukraine. After completing his studies of History, Archival Science and Education at the

  Trnavaer University in Slovakia and the Catholic University in Lublin, Poland, he founded an agriculture trade company cooperating with clients in Ukraine and Belarus. In 2001 Peter Majerčík came to Germany, where he held a teaching position at the University of Passau. Furthermore he functioned as representative of Eastern and Central Europe at the Education Committee of the Academic International Office.

• 

  Petra Gregorits

  CEO, PGM marketing research consulting, Chairwoman Women in Business/Vienna Chamber of Commerce

  More Details

  Born in 1965, lives in Vienna, Austria. Market researcher and management consultant. Studies in commerce and economics at the Vienna University of Economics, Resonance Coach. As a member of Burgenland Croates, an autochthonous minority in Austria, and upon her international NGO experience with JCI Junior Chamber International, Petra developed a distinct passion for cultural diversity. Furthermore her research focus is determined by future trends in minority policy and migration, entrepreneurship, labour market, education, creativity and innovation as well as regional development. Clients are multinationals, NGOs, communities and small and medium sized enterprises. Petra voluntarily presides the platform Women in Business with more than 30.000 members within the Vienna Chamber of Commerce.

• 

  Regina Eckert

  Senior Research Associate Center for Creative Leadership

  More Details

  As a Senior Research Associate for the EMEA region, Gina’s work focuses on leadership, careers and diversity, including gender, ethnic and cultural diversity. Currently she is managing research projects on managerial careers in 21st century Europe and 360 degree feedback for development in multinational work environments. She works at the intersection of science and practice, publishing and presenting her work for academic and practitioner
  audiences worldwide, as well as in CCL’s Handbook of Leadership Development (Jossey-Bass, 2010). Prior to her current work, Gina has consulted with companies in the automotive, health-care, manufacturing and food industries across Europe on projects of diversity and career progression, organizational culture change, expatriate coaching, and team-based management. Gina holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Munich, Germany, and a PhD in Management from Aston Business School, UK.

• 

  Sanchia Alasia

  Equality Lead Newham University Hospital Trust

  More Details

  Sanchia Alasia holds a BSc in Politics and Sociology from Brunel University and an MSc in Politics, Policy and Government from Birkbeck College, University of London. She currently works as a diversity manager for the National Health Service (NHS), in London UK. Sanchia is a newly elected local councillor in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham and won her seat in the May 2010 elections, successfully taking her seat from the fascist British National Party (BNP). She has recently written a chapter called “Resources and Constraints of Diversity and Equality Officers: Theoretical and Practitioner Reflections” in the recently published book entitled “Equality, Inequalities and Diversity, Contemporary Challenges and Strategies”.

• 

  Sherry Snipes

  Founder, Global Diversity Collaborative Director, Diversity & Inclusion, The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

  More Details

  Ms. Snipes is a dynamic diversity authority passionate regarding the world’s changing face and changes facing the world.  Her diversity leadership experiences at Fortune500 and non-profit organizations inspired formation of Global Diversity Collaborative, a non-profit focused on creating a global practitioners network.  She currently leads diversity at the AIA and previously lead global diversity at Arrow Electronics.  A Hampton University graduate, speaker, blogger and networker who was awarded TNJ’s Top 25 Most Influential Black Women in Business.  Personal quote: “Inspire & Aspire Greatness.”

• 

  Snéha Khilay

  Cultural diversity and leadership consultant/ trainer

  More Details

  Snéha Khilay is a cultural diversity and leadership consultant/ trainer working in the UK and internationally. She specialises in supporting organisations in meeting their statutory Equality and Diversity requirements and raising awareness of ‘Dignity at Work’ within the equality legislation and good practice.

  Snéha  has worked for the public sector and private organisations which include Banking, Engineering, Manufacturing and Law Firms. She has recently developed professional development training programmes for Women and Black and Minority Ethnic Staff.

  Snéha is a Board Director of Watford Palace Theatre, Board Member of University of Hertfordshire Business School. She has had articles published on diversity in various key business related magazines and is a regular contributor to the London School of Economics Diversity blog. She is currently writing a book on Cultural Diversity

• 

  Tina Deutsch

  Human Capital Manager Deloitte Consulting GmbH

  More Details

  Tina has been with Deloitte since 2010 as Manager in the Talent & Learning practice, where she develops solutions for and with organizations to strategically deal with Learning and Development of leaders and employees. Previous to her joining Deloitte, she gained experience in large –scale international Change Projects, in the design of Talent Development Programs and in the setup of Corporate Communications strategies at Royal Dutch Shell in Scandinavia and as Department Head for Change & Internal Communications at BAWAGP.S.K./ Cerberus Capital Management. Tina acted as Diversity representative at BAWAGP.S.K., where she amongst others conducted engagement surveys, co-founded a women’s network and introduced diversity awareness trainings. At Deloitte, Tina is part of the Deloitte Professional Women’s Network Tina holds a Masters degree in Applied Economics & Finance at Copenhagen Business School (DK) as well as a Master of International Management.

• 

  Zuzana Kaščáková

  Head of HR T - Systems Slovakia s.r.o.

  More Details

  Zuzana graduated at University with Master degree of Economics in year 2000. Since that time she was getting experience in HR area in various companies, mentioning e.g. Slovak Telekom or Valeo Slovakia.
  Having view from both, service and production, she came back to service company T-Systems Slovakia in 2006. She was one of „Pioneers“ building the company from scratch (0 employees) to current 2200 employees. Zuzana was responsible for the whole recruitment, administration and compensation area, leading also one of HR teams. Currently she is taking over the role of HR Business Partner for a part of ICT Operation in T-Systems Slovakia.
  She has implemented many complex ideas, processes, tools and concepts in HR Compensation, Retention, Recruitment and Diversity field. In 2008 she has graduated at Rotterdam University of Management as Master of Human Resources.
  Zuzana is married, having 2,5 year old daughter.

Framework Program

• 

  Barbara Jascht

  Entrepreneur Mindset System for Success

  More Details

  Barbara Jascht is a highly demanded Leadership coach and small business expert who works based on the latest results of brain research and neuroscience. She is the founder of “Mindset System for Success” focused on showing people how they can achieve internal wellbeing and external wealth with exactly who they are and what they are most passionate about. She has dedicated her life to helping individuals, teams and organizations to create and master change. She works with companies like A1 Telekom, Siemens, Fiat group, DHL, Bosch International and hundreds of executives and entrepreneurs. Barbara is known for her authentic and motivating speeches driven by the deep belief that everybody can change his/her life and make the world a better place to live in.

  Barbara studied psychology at the university of Vienna. Before she studied classical piano at the Bruckner conservatory of Linz and played for the last two decades all over Europe as a swing pianist. She is a certified business trainer and systemic coach and has a lot of additional certifications.

   

  Visit: http://barbarajascht.com/

• 

  David Bongard

  Outdoor and Humor Trainer

  More Details

  David Bongard is traveling Austria and Germany, passionate to communicate knowledge as an experience instead of dull facts. His seminars are about team experience, outdoor training, humor and online success.

  David was born 1977 in Düsseldorf, Germany and worked as an internet programmer and webdesigner for almost 15 years in Aachen and Vienna. He studied Cultural and Social Anthropology before starting his own training institute “Bongard Trainings” in 2011.

  Visit: http://www.bongard-trainings.at

• 

  David Bruckner

  David W. Bruckner Co-Founder of the filmproduction company filmabteilung.at

  More Details

  David W. Bruckner is an Austrian who was born in Kumasi (Ghana).

  He went to the Swiss and German elementary School in Accra and lived since 1987 in the south of Austria – Burgenland. At the age of 16 his fascination for Humans, Art and Technology led him to the Austrian Film-Industry where he is still working today.

  In the year 2001 he worked as a freelancer at DMC (Design for Media and Communication) in Vienna for clients like ARD – German Broadcaster and ONE telecommunication Austria.

  In the Year 2006 he became Co-Founder of the filmproduction company “Afrocut” which is now called “Filmabteilung H4”, situated in Vienna. In the year 2007 David W. Bruckner started collaborating with Beatrice Achaleke and produced the documentary about the 1st Black European Women’s Congress in Vienna and also filmed the 1st Black European Women’s Council in Brussels. David W. Bruckner realized also other documentaries and projects concerning Diversity during the last years.

  Meanwihle David W. Bruckner works as Director, Filmeditor and Manager in the Filmindustry for TV Broadcasters, Commercials and the ART of Moving Pictures itself. He is member of the Austrian directors and the Austrian editors Guild.

• 

  Helmut Markus

  Massage and sports massage therapist

  More Details

  Helmut Markus was born in Vienna in 1964, he is married since 1988 and has two daughters.

  Helmut trained as a medical massage therapist in 1987 and continued his training as a sports massage therapist until 1991. After this time he was a massage therapist in numerous national and international clubs thus taking part in various in various national and international competitions and training camps.

  Between 1993 and 1996 he did a training to become an independent educational massage therapists with a focus on manual lymphatic drainage. Helmut taught and lead various massage schools.

  Helmut has also cooperated with Caritas Vienna and the Austrian self-help association for people without a larynx.

   

   

   

  Visit: http://www.massage-moedling.at/

• 

  Ilona Christl

  Graphical Recorder

  More Details

  Ilona Christl has a passion for Graphic Recording and is Expert in the field of  Intercultural Training. Raised in Germany in a bilingual (Czech-German) family Ilona learnt about the impact of different cultures at an early age. From her experience teaching intercultural decision-making and responsibility at the University of Regensburg and more than 10 years of working in inter- and intra-cultural training and team development, she is deeply knowledgeable about the ways in which culture contributes to an organisation’s success and sensitive to the conditions that enable that. Ilona has co-hosted the 1.and 2. European Worldcafe gathering and 1. and 2.European Salon. The 3. will take place in2012. Ilona started her career as a sociologist. She led an interdisciplinary research project on the Charter 77 signatories, change leaders of the Czech Republic. Ilona earned her Master of Philosophy at the Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen, Germany and worked and lived in Czech Republic, Cameroon, Scotland, France and Germany.

• 

  Manfred Weis

  Photo journalist and marketing consultant

  More Details

  Manfred Weis is a freelance photo journalist and marketing consultant. The focus of his work lies in documentaries and reportages on social and socio-political issues. As an artist he portrays people and companies, with authenticity and passion taking a high value in the visual language. Also in his work as a consultant both authenticity and passion are two focal elements. His photographs have been published by National Geographic Magazine Germany, the latest book of Karim El-Gawhary „Tagebuch der arabischen Revolution“, „2012“ The Cutting Edge (Hannover), Augustin (Streetpaper Vienna), Daily Newspaper “Kurier” (Austria), Daily Newspaper “Österreich” (Austria), Daily Newspaper “Die Rheinpfalz” (Germany), the Whitewall Art Market (Berlin), “News” Magazine (Austria) and many else.

   

  Visit: http://www.manfredweis.com/

• 

  Marialena Fernandes

  Marialena Fernandes Professor, Vienna University of Music and Performing Arts, Austria

  More Details

  Marialena Fernandes is Professor at the Vienna University of Music and Performing Arts and Professor of Piano and Chamber Music at the Joseph Haydn Conservatory Eisenstadt (Austria) since 1991. Marialena is Artistic Director and International Program Curator in Crossover projects, in which she incorporates classical, jazz and world music fusions with an emphasis on Improvisation enabling intercultural exchanges between Students, Teachers and Audiences. In 2010 she did a research sabbatical as Faculty Member and worked as Scholar at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign USA. Since 2007 she has been organising the Series Cycle „Uno, Due, Tre“ in Vienna Musikverein. She gives Workshops and run Masterclasses around the globe and has been Member of Jury at International Music Competitions. Fernandes has initiated several Projects with Women Composers and Gender themes.

  Marialena is a truly global artist who has performed as Solo artist, with the Chamber Music and Orchestra in many European capitals, in USA, Australia, Africa and Asia. She is a regular guest on Annual TV and Radio broadcasts. Born in Mumbai, Marialena acquired her Licentiate Diploma from the Royal Schools of Music in 1967. Marialena holds a degree in psychology from the University of Mumbai/India.  In 1972 she received a scholarship for further musical education at the present University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna. In 1975 she earned a Diploma in Piano and Chamber Music Performance with distinctions and a Master of Art Education (Magister artium) in 1988. Marialena was honoured in 2008 with the “MIA Award” for Woman with intercultural background for her groundbreaking achievements in the field of Art and Culture. Presently Marialena is working on a Doctoral Thesis on the theme „The Song of Goa“ which is about her hometown in India.

• 

  Martina Pausch

  Creative Designer

  More Details

  Martina was born in Styria, Austria but has been living in Vienna for over 10 years. After studying Business Administration her professional journey took her to some pretty interesting spaces: from Airlines to a Traditional Chinese Medicine University, an NGO to a beer company. She is currently engaging her passion for people by working in HR.

  Through sewing Martina brings creative work to her private life. She designs unique and vivid handbags, laptop cases, mobile phone covers and a few other surprises to bring more color to the world.

• 

  Nicole Bäck-Knapp

  Managing Director of Ecker & Partner

  More Details

  Nicole Bäck-Knapp is Managing Director of Ecker & Partner, one of the largest Austrian PR und Public Affairs Agencies. Her focuses lie on Financial Communication, Crisis Communication and Social Media. She studied Political Science and History in Vienna and has a Master degree in “Integrated Public Relations” which she completed at Donau-Universität Krems. She is lector at the Master Study Public Communication. She is a mother of a 7 month-old daughter and has a husband who is in paternal leave.

• 

  Norbert Pauser

  Vienna, Austria

  More Details

  Norbert Pauser is former co-owner and Managing Director of Pauser&Wondrak Unterneh- mensberatung OG (www.pauser-wondrak.at) which offers consultancy services with regard to Diversity Management, diversity projects and diversity trainings. While Nor- bert was studying theoretical pedagogics at the Vienna University, he was developing an unusual project in 2001 called equalizent, which set new standards in adult education
  for deaf and hard of hearing customers (in Austrian Sign Language) in Vienna. He left equalizent (which had over 30 employees by the time) in 2008 to start his own Diversity business with Manfred Wondrak.
  Norbert was one of the first experts to develop standards for Diversity in Austria: he was head of the consortium ‚2501 Diversity Management‘ at the ÖNORM Institute; (Implementation of Diversity Management in Organizations); in 2005 he was awarded for creating a Diversity Scorecard according to ‚Social Responsible Manager of the Year 2005‘; Mr. Pauser founded a Diversity Quality Circle with recognized experts in the Field of Diversity. He is also board member of FEDM – Forum European Diversity Management and board member of AGPRO – Austrian gay professionals.

• 

  Sandra Kerr

  National Director, Race for Opportunity, UK

  More Details

  Sandra is the National Director for Race for Opportunity which is a business led network of organisations from the private and public sector working and committed to race equality as part of their business agenda.  Sandra works together with the Race for Opportunity board to set the agenda for race diversity in the UK as a business imperative.

  Sandra currently sits on the Ethnic Minority Advisory which advises the Government’s Ministers on closing the ethnic minority employment gap.  Key pieces of research reports from Race for Opportunity include Race to the Top looking at ethnic minorities and leadership in the UK, Race into Higher Education, Race and the Professions – Aspiration and Frustration and Race to the Future.

• 

  Simon Inou

  Executive Director M-MEDIA Founder of Medien-Messe Migration

  More Details

  Simon Inou studied Sociology in Cameroon and Journalism in Austria. Prior to M-Media he was Chief Editor of Radio Afrika International and of “Informationsportal Afrikanet”.
  Simon’s has a very diverse and impressive journalistic portfolio ranging from self-initiated project to consortium projects with mainstream media. Some of his pioneering projects include BLACKAUSTRIA communication campaign; the first Media fair Migration and Diversity, “Migrant Journalists writing for Die Presse”(an Austrian daily newspaper), director of M-MEDIA the Diversity Media Watch etc. He is a media critic and writes for Austrian and international newspapers and magazines.

  Simon is a multiple award winner among which; the Styrian journalism prize (2002), the PAMOJA BLACK HISTORY MONTH prize (2004), the Austrian intercultural prize for his project (2005), the EU journalism prize “For Diversity. Against Discrimination”(2007).  Simon Inou is initiator of the first journalism prize for intercultural dialogue.

Attendees

Attendee Online Registration

Join us at the first European Diversity & Business Congress (EDIC) in Vienna on March 1^st and 2^nd 2012! Registration deadline is Monday February 20^th 2012. Only online registrations will be accepted.
Registration is limited; early registration is recommended!
Late registrants will be considered based on availability.

Participation Fees:

• €552 Christmas Special (til Jan 20th)
• €690 for early birds (20th Jan- 20th Feb)
• €790 standard registration (20th -25thFeb)
• €500 for NGOs and students (depending on available) with identification cards
• €590 Single Entry Ticket to the European Diversity Honours evening reception

We gladly offer companies

• 10% off participation fee for sending 3-6 employees and
• 20% to those sending 6-10 employees!

The participation fee is payable by paypal or credit card. Only official online registrations will be accepted.

*Speakers enjoy free participation.

*The registration fee does not cover hotel accommodation and travel costs.

*All congress panels and break out sessions are open to registered participants.

Return on participation fee (ROPF)

EDIC is very unique in its conception. It is for a very specific audience with carefully selected themes, speakers and setting to enable participants get the best returns on their participation fee.  EDIC is an ideal learning place for D&I leaders, practioners, companies and organisations cautious of the opportunities offered by a good diversity strategy. Our task is to ensure that you ripe outstanding returns on your participation fee. Your seven unique and excellent benefits include:

• Highly thoughts provoking insights from best -in -class D&I leaders from Europe and around the world.
• Exclusive access to groundbreaking D&I trends in research findings from outstanding global companies
• High- profiled contacts and networking opportunities with refreshingly new opportunities for Diversity practioners
• Unique and unforgettable experience of diversity and inclusion at work from leading companies and organisations
• Joining us at the second  “European Diversity Leadership Honours” evening reception 2012
• Ideal forum for you to share your own diversity story share your diversity story
• Earn a certificate of participation at the end of the two days congress.

The participation fee covers:

• Participation at all conference and breakout sessions
• Conference materials
• Each reception indicated on the Agenda
• Coffee breaks and meals
• Bus Transfers related to conference Agenda

Registration Deadline

The EDIC registration deadline is Monday February 20^th 2012.  EDIC cancellation policy Cancellations received 15 working days before the congress will NOT be subject to a cancellation fee. All cancellations received 14 – 6 working days before the conference shall be subjected to €90 cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued for cancellations 5 working days before the conference. Please submit your cancellations including name of replacements in writing or via email to registration@diversityleadership.eu at least 5 working days before the conference.

Speakers

Speakers online registration

All speakers are requested to register officially online!

We shall be most honoured to get back to you with detailed information upon reception of your registration.

Required documentation for registration:

• 300 word Essay stating your expertise for the chosen panel
• 100 words short bio, preferably sent to us as a Word document
• 1 printable photograph, no less than 300 DPI, for our Congress Journal

Submission deadline

The D&I Congress enjoys a high demand of speaking engagements from extremely high-profile leaders from around the globe. For the purpose of quick handling we encourage you to submit your complete registration no later than Monday 30^th November 2011. Speakers will be considered depending on availability of speaking opportunities. We will get back to you with our speaker’s commitment form upon reception of your complete registration form.

Visit our website http://www.diversityleadership.eu for any further information.

It is our duty and pleasure to assist you through a smooth and quick registration procedure, so feel free to contact us for any assistance. You can reach us by phone +43 9660 11 969 115 or by email: achaleke@diversityleadership.eu

I personally look forward to welcoming you on board our high profile speakers’ community and to welcoming you to Vienna in March 2012.

Let the sun shine!

Beatrice Achaleke
CEO Diversity Leadership
EDIC Congress Manager

Sponsorship opportunities

We are constantly looking for new PARTNERSHIPS on our diversity journey. Join our crucial Diversity and Inclusion efforts on European ground by becoming a partner today.

We offer a number of Sponsorship Packages to fit various needs and budgets. Ask for our extremely attractive Sponsorship Packages! Each Sponsorship Package provides sponsors with exclusive advantages including creating maximum visibility for each of our partners.

Feel free to give us a call or send us an Email today!

10 excellent reasons to become an EDIC Sponsor today!

1. Making a conscious commitment to Business Diversity and Inclusion today
2. Joining a high profile forum of international diversity thought leadership including high ranking CEOs, policy-makers, academia, practitioners and other stakeholders etc.
3. Having access to the most recent research findings and cutting-edge global diversity management tools
4. Enjoying excellent networking opportunities
5. Gaining visibility through a Keynote Speech (main sponsors only)
6. Showcasing your own company’s best practices
7. Choosing the speakers and topics on your Company Panel
8. Enjoying exclusive visibility (Conference Book, Website, Video Walls, printed materials, Conference Bags, Lanyards etc.)
9. Having free entry passes to the European Diversity & Business Congress
10. Access to Conference Documentation (main sponsors only)

Main Sponsorship Packages

Main Sponsorship Packages range from our Junior (€ 12.900) to our Leading Sponsorship Package (€ 24.900).

Special Sponsorship Packages

Furthermore we offer a total of 13 special packages amongst which:

• Company Panel €12.900
• Session-Sponsorship €5.400
• Student-sponsorship € 2.000 for 10 students!
• Congress Lunch €8.400

Diversity Leadership is committed to ensuring excellent involvement and visibility of its sponsors as clearly outlined in the Sponsorship Packages.

For more information contact:

Beatrice Achaleke, CEO and Conference Manager at +43 699 11 696 115 or achaleke@diversityleadership.eu

Past Media Partners

Past Strategic Partners

Past Sponsors

Conference Overall

What is the European Diversity & Business Congress?

The European Diversity & Business Congress (EDIC) is a high-ranking international gathering of senior corporate managers, HR and CSR managers, Diversity and Inclusion experts and practitioners, government and non-government organization (NGO) officials, academics etc. focused on the complex challenges and opportunities related to global diversity management.

What makes the European Diversity & Business Congress different from WDLS-EU?

The European Diversity Congress builds on the success and positive spirit and know-how of the World Diversity Leadership Summit.  EDIC builds on lessons learnt in leveraging and managing Diversity and will be laying more emphasis on Inclusion.

Unlike our past D&I conferences, EDIC has a very strong Pan-European focus and is unique gathering of best in-class companies, and an ideal learning place for both D&I professionals and beginners.

Can I register online?

Sure! You can register at your convenience once registration is open.

We shall confirm your registration within 24 hours thereafter.

How many people are expected to attend the Congress?

Each of our past Diversity Leadership conferences have attracted over 150 participants from all over the world. For 2012 we plan to attract 200 international participants.

What attire is appropriate for each event?

Business casual attire is the appropriate attire for the conference and its framework events.

Program

Can I choose the breakout sessions I would like to attend?

Yes! Do please feel free to select your preferred breakout sessions on our agenda. Confirmation will be issued based on availability prior to the conference.

Are there any evening events?

Yes! The first day of the Congress ends with the renowned European Diversity Honours Reception and ends with a special reception if indicated on the agenda.

What is the cost of participation?

• €690 for early birds
• €790 standard registration
• €500 for NGOs and students (depending on available) with identification cards
• €590 Single Entry Ticket to the European Diversity Honours evening reception

We gladly offer companies

• 10% off participation fee for sending 3-6 employees and
• 20% to those sending 6-10 employees!

What does the participation fee cover?

• Participation at all conference and breakout sessions
• Conference materials
• Each reception indicated on the Agenda
• Coffee breaks and meals
• Bus Transfers related to conference Agenda

Does my registration fee cover hotel accommodations and travel costs?

No! Each participant, including speakers cover their own travel and hotel costs.

Participants are advised to undertake their own travel arrangements. However, we have gladly negotiated special rates with selected hotels to facilitate the task for our participants. Selected hotels shall be available online well ahead of the Congress.

Are all congress sessions open to registered participants?

Sure they are, and we encourage our registered participants take advantage of as many panels as possible to maximise knowledge, experiences and contacts.

Are single tickets for individual events available?

Only full conference packages can be purchased.

What if I have to cancel?

Cancellations received 15 working days before the congress will NOT be subject to a cancellation fee. All cancellations received 14 – 6 working days before the conference shall be subjected to €90 cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued for cancellations 5 working days before the conference.

Please submit your cancellations including name of replacements in writing or via email to registration@diversityleadership.eu at least 5 working days before the conference.

EDIC Speakers

I would like to speak at the European Diversity & Business Congress: how can I register?

We gladly accept speakers based on availability. Please kindly get in touch with us, (registration@diversityleadership.eu) or check our website for the current call for speakers.

Location/Airport transfer

Where is the congress taking place?

The European Diversity & Business Congress takes place annually in Austria. Please check our website for the venue of the current congress.

Is there a Shuttle Service from the airport to the hotel?

There are various shuttle services from the Vienna International Airport to the hotels. Registrants are encouraged to arrange their preferred services at their convenience at cost. Feel free to visit our website for additional and useful information prior to the congress.

Is there a Limo Service available?

Yes, there are several Limo services available at the Vienna International Airport. Participants are however advised to reserve these services at their own discretion.

What time is hotel check-in/check-out?

Please check the websites of your preferred hotel for précised information.

Are gratuities (i.e. tips) included or is this my responsibility?

We cover gratuities and tips for reception staff during the congress.

However, tips for hotel service (bell stand, valet, housekeeping, etc.) are at your discretion and expense.

What if I still have more questions or concerns?

We would be more than glad to assist you, please call +43 699 11 969 115 or send a fax to +43 1 9660 425 or send an email to registration@diversityleadership.eu

Call for Nominations 2012

European Diversity Leadership Honours EDLH

Call for Nominations 2012

The next European Diversity Leadership Honours in 2012 will take place on March 1st. The host and venue are still to be decided.

Diversity Leadership is committed to promoting best practices and innovative research in relation to global Diversity and Inclusion by honouring outstanding diversity-driven initiatives through the European Diversity Leadership (EDL) Honours. In March 2011, 8 companies and organisations with cutting-edge and groundbreaking research findings on the one hand, and inspiring, trendsetting, practical and innovative diversity and inclusion initiatives on the other, were selected for the very first EDL Honours.

The EDL Honours selection body and high-ranking international jury are composed partly of former speakers of our past speakers and a peer group of respected D&I thought leaders.

Eligible EDL Honours Companies and organisations must be: global, have at least 30 employees and an innovative research or a practical approach to diversity and inclusion in the following categories:

• Creative Leadership
  Nomination Form: Creative-Leadership.doc
  
• Multi-cultural working Environment
  Nomination Form:Multicultural-Working-Environment.doc
  
• Work-Life-Flexibility
  Nomination Form: Work-life-Flexibility.doc
  
• Innovative Research Findings
  Nomination Form: Innovative-research-findings.doc

• Deadline for Nomination: 25th of January 2012

All completed nomination forms are to be sent by Email to EDL@diversityleadership.eu. Nominations received after January 25th shall not be taken into consideration.

For further details and contact achaleke@diversityleadership.eu

Or call +43 699 11 969 115

Awardees 2011

European Diversity Leadership Honours 2011

Photo gallery

The 2011 EDL Honours Categories included:

• Creative Leadership
• Multi-Cultural Working Environment
• Work-Life Flexibility
• Innovative Research Findings

The 8 outstanding companies honoured in each of the four categories were:

• London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) Ltd. (UK)
  Center for Creative Leadership CCL (Belgium)
• Henkel (Germany/Austria)
• ICUnet AG (Austria/Germany)
• IKEA (Austria)
• Ecker&Partner (Austria)
• Universum (Schweden)
• Mercer/ORC Networks (USA)

EDL Honours: Kahlenberg, Vienna, March 2011

“Promoting diversity and inclusion for Diversity Leadership also means showcasing and recognising best practices and trendsetting initiatives being implemented by companies and organisations with the EDL-Honours“ says Beatrice Achaleke, Diversity Leadership CEO and Conference Manager.

EDL Honours: Kahlenberg, Vienna, March 2011

The host of the 2011 European Diversity Leadership Honours was the Austrian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This unique and high-profile event took place in a stunning setting on the hills overlooking Vienna.

Gallery

Hotels

We have carefully selected the following Hotels in order to guarantee Congress participants a pleasant and comfortable stay in Vienna!

(Kindly ask for the D&I Congress Special Rate upon booking)

5 ***** Hotel

Hilton Vienna Plaza Hotel

http://www.hotel-rez.com/hw/a119166/index.htm?lbl=ggl-en
(Unfortunately Special Rates are not available at this hotel)

3 *** Hotel

Pension Neuer Markt

http://www.hotelpension.at/neuermarkt/english/index.htm
Email: neuermarkt@hotelpension.at
(Kindly ask for the D&I Congress Special Rate upon booking)

Pension Neuer Markt Congress Rates:
Double Room €105 (per room, per night)
Double room single occupancy € 80 (per room, per night)
Cancellation is free of charge until 16th of February.

Visit the site of the Accor Hotel Management Agency to find out whichother hotels have rooms available!

Other Hotels close to the Conference Venues with which we have no convention are:

Novotel Wien City (Aspernbrückengasse 1, Vienna)

Mercure Wien Zentrum (Am Fleischmarkt 1a, Vienna)

Hotel Schick Capricorno (Am Schwedenplatz 3-4, Vienna)

Hotel Astoria (Kärnternstrasse, Vienna)

Hotel Mailberger Hof (Annagasse 7, Vienna)

Hotel Marc Aurel (Marc Aurelstrasse 8, Vienna)

Hotel Royal (Singerstrasse 3, Vienna)

Pension Nossek & Co (Graben 17, Vienna)

Hotel Post (Fleischmarkt 24, Vienna)

Hotel Austria Wien (Fleischmarkt 20, Vienna)

Should you need further assistance in booking, do not hesitate to contact us via email under: office@diversityleadership.eu

Venue

Conference Day 1

When: 1.3.2012,  12:45-6:45 pm

Where: Wifi Wien

Address: Währinger Gürtel 97, 1180 Vienna

Insitute for Economic Development
of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce

Cocktail Reception- European Diversity Leadership Honours

When: 1.3. 2012, 8-10pm

Where: Ringturm

Address: Schottenring 30, A-1010 Wien

Conference Day 2

When: 2.3.2012, 9am-6pm

Where: Raiffeisenbank Niederösterreich – Wien

Address: Friedrich – Wilhelm – Raiffeisen Platz 1, 1020 Vienna