New OxTalks episode released: 'How to embrace diversity in the workplace'

The latest edition from the third series of OxLEP’s podcast OxTalkshas today (11 November) been released.

In this episode of OxTalks host Howard Bentham is joined by Laura Ayoade Equity Diversity and Inclusion Lead at Aston Martin.

Laura grew up in Oxfordshire and still lives locally today. Her career began with a degree in dance specialising in hip-hop followed by professional dancing in London and New York.

Laura became Head of Performing Arts at a secondary school while earning master’s degrees in performance research and law with a focus on racial justice.

Her next career phase involved corporate and social responsibility at Unipart Group focusing on emphasising well-being and diversity. Specialising in diversity and inclusion at Business in the Community led to Laura’s current role at Aston Martinwhich she started in August 2022.

As the first-ever Equity Diversity & Inclusion Lead at Aston MartinLaura continues to drive impactful ED&I initiatives for the business.

WATCH: Series three episode five: ‘How to embrace diversity in the workplace’

During this edition Howard and Laura explore the impact and integration of equality diversity and inclusion into different sectors of business and enterpriseas well as sharing practical advice and guidance for leaders.

Laura and Howard are joined by OxLEP’s Leona Weston who is on-hand to provide insights as to how OxLEP continues to support those furthest from the workplace or perhaps who have become disenfranchised from the labour market.

OxTalks is recorded at the Oxford studios of Story Ninety-Four.

Watch more OxTalks episodes