Tech & AI LIVE London – Tia Cheang Diversity and Inclusion

October 28, 2024

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Tia Cheang of Gallagher discusses the importance of embracing diversity and inclusion in the technology industry at Tech & AI LIVE London

During a fireside chat at Tech & AI LIVE London (virtual), Tia Cheang, Director of IT Data and Information Services for UK and MENA at Gallagher, shared insights on diversity and inclusion in technology.

Cheang begins by highlighting the importance of diversity of thought, which is essential for reducing bias in data and AI. “When we think about the future of data and AI, we want to remove bias, and the best way to do that is through diversity of thought,” she says, emphasising the industry’s need to attract a wider range of talent.

Cheang points out that despite significant progress over the past 20 years, certain communities remain underrepresented in technology, particularly the Black community. She called for renewed efforts to expand the talent pool and create a welcoming industry. “We need to do more to attract diverse candidates and retain them,” she explains, stressing the value of exposing underrepresented groups to technology careers from a young age.

Addressing barriers to entry and fostering inclusion

When asked about the obstacles to achieving diversity, Cheang suggests that many candidates from diverse backgrounds may lack awareness of the range of roles and skills needed in technology. This lack of awareness, she argues, often prevents them from pursuing careers in the industry. “It’s not that people aren’t welcome—it’s that we haven’t had the right reach in attracting and retaining candidates,” she explains.

Cheang emphasised that fostering diversity involves both outreach and education. She pointed to initiatives like grassroots programmes in schools, which expose children to technology through engaging activities like robotics. “We need to make technology careers appealing from an early age,” she says, noting the potential impact of scholarship schemes and sponsorships aimed at underrepresented communities.

However, Cheang stresses that diversity is only part of the equation. Inclusion, she argues, is about creating an environment where people feel at home and able to thrive. She advises companies to consider practical steps, such as offering reasonable adjustments for interviews and gathering input from employees on how to improve inclusivity. “Use your employees’ insights to drive bottom-up initiatives that make your workplace more inclusive,” she urges.

Tia Cheang, Director of IT Data and Information Services for UK and MENA at Gallagher

Practical steps for increasing representation

Cheang shares examples of organisations that have successfully implemented diversity initiatives, particularly her experiences within the NHS. There, she was involved in efforts to accommodate neurodiverse employees by making adjustments such as altering lighting and providing coaching. “Disability is still an area that’s often overlooked,” she notes, pointing out that many people with disabilities are hesitant to disclose them due to fears about stigma or workplace implications.

When asked about the cost of making reasonable adjustments, Cheang dismisses concerns, stating that many adjustments, such as flexible working, cost little to implement. Additionally, she mentions government grants, like the Access to Work scheme, that can cover expenses for workplace modifications. Cheang also emphasises the value of hiring individuals with diverse abilities, explaining that their contributions and unique perspectives outweigh any potential costs.

Discussing the business case for diversity, Cheang argues that organisations with diverse teams are better positioned to understand and serve their customers. “If you have staff from different backgrounds, you better understand your customers’ needs and can design more inclusive products and services,” she says. She cites examples from Gallagher, where understanding the needs of visually impaired or multilingual clients is critical to delivering accessible insurance services.

Tia Cheang, Director of IT Data and Information Services for UK and MENA at Gallagher

Overcoming unconscious bias and promoting leadership

Cheang acknowledges that unconscious bias remains a challenge across many organisations, but she advises focusing on cultural shifts rather than relying solely on training. “I’m not sure you can shift someone’s mentality in a few hours of training,” she says, suggesting that addressing bias requires broader societal changes and consistent efforts within the organisation.

To reduce bias in recruitment, Cheang recommends using diverse interview panels to ensure a variety of perspectives and experiences are represented. She argues that this approach is more effective than standalone training sessions in addressing unconscious bias.

Cheang also addresses the underrepresentation of women in executive roles, encouraging mentoring and coaching initiatives to build confidence and readiness. She mentions that women often hesitate to apply for senior roles unless they meet 100% of the requirements, compared to men who apply when they meet 60%. “We need to do more to educate and coach women to pursue these roles,” she emphasises.

Tia Cheang’s session at Tech & AI LIVE London underscored the importance of both diversity and inclusion in the technology industry. By focusing on outreach, fostering an inclusive culture, and addressing barriers to entry, companies can create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.