Diversity & Inclusion at IBM iX

Diversity is a catalyst for innovation. At IBM iX, embracing diverse perspectives is essential for innovation and growth. Our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) ensures that every voice is valued and empowered. By setting clear goals and fostering an inclusive culture, we cultivate an environment where everyone can excel.

Safe, needed, celebrated.

Only an environment where everyone feels seen and valued can foster growth and progress. Our vision is for every individual to feel safe, needed, and celebrated. We are convinced that by raising awareness and encouraging everyone to become an ally, we create a supportive and inclusive workplace. This commitment is reflected in our ongoing efforts, from implementing inclusive guides to building communities, introducing training programs, and standing up for diversity.

“We want to foster a nurturing environment where everyone feels safe, needed, and celebrated!”

Toni Shtereva

Diversity & Inclusion Lead, IBM iX Berlin

How do we live D&I?

Our employees’ unique needs and challenges shape our Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) initiatives. By establishing clear Goal Areas, we ensure every voice is valued and heard.

We embrace holistic solutions that consider the whole person, meeting our colleagues where they are. This approach enables us to create intersectional initiatives that address multiple dimensions of diversity simultaneously.

D&I is a journey, not a destination. We prioritise transparent internal communication, fostering a culture of participation and continuous feedback. Together, we are building a more inclusive and supportive workplace for everyone.

As a core component of our Social Impact strategy, our D&I Goal Areas outline the essential pillars guiding our efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion.

Women in Tech workshops at IBM iX Studio, Zagreb.

Knowledge & Visibility

We host regular sessions for dialogue and education that address both visible and invisible challenges. Our tailored training equips employees at all levels to actively contribute to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Diverse people at a meetup, sitting and listening to a presentation.

Feedback Systems

We cultivate an inclusive culture through regular meetups, allowing everyone to connect, share ideas, and engage. Our focus groups are open to all, encouraging participation in shaping our company culture. Annual surveys help us identify solutions aligned with our values, ensuring that our culture informs our processes. We also have dedicated trust persons available to support you with any concerns.

A free space to sit and relax, featuring two small stools with a picture frame on them.

Reliable Framework

We are dedicated to diversifying our workforce by integrating unconscious bias awareness into our hiring processes. Our frameworks ensure salary transparency and offer flexible working arrangements tailored to individual needs.

A man sitting at a table, smiling and looking at the camera.

Engaged Leaders

Our D&I advocates highlight diverse perspectives and key topics, enriching our workplace culture and serving as role models for the team.

Three people of different ages in an office, engaged in a pleasant conversation.

Mindful Culture

At IBM iX, we foster an inclusive environment that respects individual choices for gender and pronouns. English is our primary language, promoting collaboration across borders. We provide gender-neutral restrooms and spaces for open dialogue to ensure everyone feels supported.

A man holding a microphone speaks at a meetup event.

Sensitive Language

We promote an inclusive environment by establishing guidelines for sensitive language and anti-racist communication, providing a framework for respectful interactions.

Three women and a man at a meetup event sitting side by side and engaging in conversation.

External Eminence

We empower underrepresented groups and lead by example. By supporting women’s communities and participating in diverse events, we advocate for those who need it, striving to make a positive impact.

Our D&I Advocates

Our D&I advocates are passionate individuals who drive our initiatives forward. They focus on addressing the unique needs and challenges of our employees, ensuring that our efforts are impactful and relevant. By defining clear Goal Areas, we prioritise the voices of every team member.

Christina Schiffler
Executive Director

“Our society focuses on either being too young or too old. The truth is: Companies that are diverse in terms of gender, age, and ethnicity make up to 87% better (business) decisions.”

Markus Dietrich
CEO IBM iX DACH

“For me, inclusive leadership means, among other things, that in decision-making, a wide range of perspectives is considered.”

Anne Kikuts
Director Marketing

“By supporting and empowering female leaders, we can drive innovation, make a more significant impact, and create a more balanced and effective leadership pipeline.”

Dominik Multhaupt
Executive Director

“I want to show that even as a neurotypical person, I realise that individual situations can differ from my own in many different ways.”

Oliver Zimmer
Client partner

“Listen, listen, listen, understand, discuss. Collaborate.”

Tanja Waldeck
Executive Partner

“The program greatly supports strengthening our inclusive leadership practices – creating a more equitable work environment where everyone can thrive, driving business success and social impact.”

Christian Stadler
Frontend Developer

“I find it important to provide equal access to everyone on the web and to not exclude certain people from it.”

Lucie Tuffers
Jr. Account Partner

“By embracing the unique strengths and perspectives that parents bring to the table, we can create a more inclusive environment that supports the diverse experiences of all individuals.”

Elke Röttgen
COO IBM iX DACH

“Thanks to an inclusive environment we can make better decisions by including different perspectives and developing better ideas.“

Oliver Ristau
Associate Design Director

“To me, inclusive leadership means creating spaces that are built on respect, appreciation, and fun.”

Katharina Rapp
Associate Director Content Design

“To me, inclusive leadership means valuing diverse perspectives, creating a space where every voice is heard and respected.”

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To foster empowerment, diversity, and innovation within the technology sector we bring together women and male allies online and offline to support each other. Join us to connect and exchange – regardless of your discipline or career stage.

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What’s new in our D&I journey?

We are committed to embedding D&I principles into our culture, daily business, and projects. Our goal is to ensure that our solutions reflect our values and drive positive change within our clients' organisations and our own culture. By prioritizing diverse perspectives and inclusive practices, we strive to create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Social Impact

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Questions or feedback? Reach out!

Toni Shtereva

D&I Lead, IBM iX

toni.shtereva@ibmix.de

Katrin Lerm

Marketing & Social Impact Managerin

katrin.lerm@ibmix.de

Tobias Fleischmann

D&I Manager, IBM iX

tobias.fleischmann@ibm.com

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