VF hires for ‘next phase of inclusion work’
The sports and footwear group is among several big sportswear players, including adidas and Lululemon, that have announced inclusion strategies in recent months, potentially spurred by the Black Lives Matter movement earlier in the year.
Anita Graham, VF’s chief human resources officer, said: “VF has accelerated our focus on inclusion and diversity in recent years, both inside and outside our company, and we’re committed to maintaining the strong momentum we’ve created.
“Lauren is a collaborative, proven leader who has spearheaded some of our most thoughtful and powerful I&D programs aimed at racial equity, social justice and fostering a more inclusive environment for all. She is the ideal person to lead VF and our family of brands into the next phase of this important work.”
Guthrie previously served as VF’s vice-president of council to advance racial equity (CARE) and Inclusion & Diversity for the Americas Region, supporting the black, indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC) workforce throughout VF and its brands. Guthrie also helped to establish a network of employee resource groups across VF that focus on addressing the needs of underrepresented employees.