Stanley names Chief Diversity Officer
Stanley Black & Decker named Joe Simms as chief diversity officer, a new role for the company.
Simms will champion a broad approach to diversity, equity and inclusion to accelerate company performance, optimize organizational culture, enhance transparency and strengthen accountability. Simms will also establish key external partnerships to enhance the company's ecosystem of diverse sources of talent and expertise.
Simms began his career at Stanley Black & Decker in 2013 as Vice President, Human Resources for U.S. Sales & Marketing. Before joining the company, Simms worked in a variety of human resource leadership roles at PepsiCo, including Senior Director, Human Resources for Pepsi Beverage Company's (PBC) Mid-Atlantic Region. He joined PBC in 1995 and held a number of roles with increasing leadership responsibilities during his 17-year tenure at PepsiCo.
Simms will report to Jim Loree, CEO, Stanley Black & Decker.
"Joe's appointment represents another elevation and investment in our DE&I efforts," said Loree. "Our purpose, For Those Who Make The World, reinforces our commitment to inclusivity for all people. More broadly, diversity, equity and inclusion are cornerstones of our culture. Joe's strong leadership and expertise in building a diverse and inclusive culture will help accelerate our progress in achieving true equality."
Stanley Black & Decker has taken a number of steps to advance its diversity and inclusion efforts, supporting nine employee resource groups (including a Women's Network), joining the Paradigm for Parity Coalition to address the gender gap in corporate leadership and signing on to the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion. The company has also participated in the Business Roundtable Diversity & Inclusion Index, where the largest U.S.-based employers are committed to building a more inclusive environment. In addition, the company's CEO, Jim Loree was among a group of prominent CEOs to sign on to the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion.
