UPS Announces Retirement of Charlene Thomas

Rhea-AI Summary

UPS Announces Leadership Transition in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

On September 9, 2022, UPS revealed that Charlene Thomas, Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, will retire on October 1 after 34 years with the company. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in UPS's global DEI efforts and launched the 'You Belong at UPS' initiative. Darrell Ford, the current EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer, will take over her DEI responsibilities, emphasizing UPS's commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.

Positive

• Charlene Thomas's leadership significantly advanced UPS's diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
• UPS was recognized by Supply Chain Magazine as one of the top 10 companies for DEI initiatives.
• Darrell Ford is well-positioned to continue DEI initiatives given his experience as CHRO.

Negative

• None.

CHRO Darrell Ford Assumes Responsibility for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

ATLANTA, Sept. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- UPS announced today that Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Charlene Thomas will retire after 34 years of exemplary service, effective Oct. 1.

Most recently, Charlene led UPS’s global diversity, equity and inclusion efforts among employees, suppliers and customers around the world. Before that, Charlene served as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), guiding the company’s efforts to transform its culture and people practices for UPS’s more than 500,000 global employees.

“We thank Charlene for her distinguished career and leadership in roles ranging from Operations to Marketing, and Human Resources,” said Chief Executive Officer Carol Tomé. “Her recent work launching our ‘You Belong at UPS’ initiative is an example of her lasting impact on current and future employees, encouraging them to bring their personal and professional gifts to the organization.”

Charlene also led the company’s policy changes regarding tattoos, natural hair and other areas of personal appearance. During her tenure Charlene was named the 2020 Converge D&I Global Executive of the Year and in August 2022 UPS was named one of Supply Chain Magazine’s top 10 companies committed to implementing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives in recruitment and partnerships.

Upon Charlene’s retirement, UPS EVP and CHRO Darrell Ford will assume the additional role of Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. 

About UPS
UPS (NYSE: UPS) is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2021 revenue of $97.3 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 220 countries and territories. Focused on its purpose statement, “Moving our world forward by delivering what matters,” the company’s more than 500,000 employees embrace a strategy that is simply stated and powerfully executed: Customer First. People Led. Innovation Driven. UPS is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and supporting the communities we serve around the world. UPS also takes an unwavering stance in support of diversity, equity and inclusion. More information can be found at www.ups.com, about.ups.com and www.investors.ups.com.

FAQ

What major leadership change was announced by UPS on September 9, 2022?

UPS announced that Charlene Thomas will retire as Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer effective October 1, 2022.

Who will replace Charlene Thomas in the DEI role at UPS?

Darrell Ford, the current EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer, will assume the role of Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer upon Charlene Thomas's retirement.

What initiatives did Charlene Thomas lead at UPS?

Charlene Thomas led UPS's global diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, including the launch of the 'You Belong at UPS' initiative.

What recognition did UPS receive for its DEI efforts?

UPS was named one of Supply Chain Magazine's top 10 companies committed to implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.