Sims-Williams Named Nielsen Chief Diversity Officer

Nielsen has moved Sandra Sims-Williams to the role of Chief Diversity Officer, taking over from CEO David Kenny, who has held both roles since February 2019.

In the past year, Nielsen has invested in a number of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. This has included establishing a diverse executive committee; and implementing a global non-discrimination policy that ensures equal opportunity for LGBTQ+ associates, with same sex partners being offered health benefits in several countries. Additionally, Nielsen has launched Gracenote Inclusion Analytics; and rolled out a Black-owned small business resource site, to support those facing difficulties during the pandemic and discrimination.

Sims-Williams (pictured) joined as SVP of Diversity & Inclusion (DE&I) in January 2020, after serving as Chief Diversity Officer at Publicis Groupe, where her areas of expertise included diverse leadership development, retention programming, analytics and effectiveness, supplier diversity and multicultural talent acquisition. In 2019, she made the Black Enterprise Top Corporate Executives list and SAVOY Magazine's Most Influential Women in Corporate America list.

In her new role, she will continue to lead Nielsen's DE&I team, with a remit to develop a more inclusive culture for the company and increase diverse representation. As CDO, she remains part of Nielsen's executive leadership team and continues to report to Kenny, who comments: 'Diversity, equity and inclusion is the heart and soul of Nielsen's business. As we continue to evolve our company, Sandra's leadership, wisdom and experience as our new CDO will accelerate our progress'.

Web site: www.nielsen.com .