IPG Integrated Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategy

For over 16 years now, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) have been core strategic differentiators for Interpublic Group (IPG) and our advertising, marketing services, digital and public relations subsidiaries, spanning our 52,000+ employees. Like most companies, despite the milestones we have achieved, we still have far to go.  Our framework for progress is consistent with our business strategy and involves deep, sustainable change.

A Vision and Mission Grounded in Business Goals

At IPG, we aim to create value for our clients, our talent, our communities and our shareholders by harnessing the power of diversity, equity and inclusion. The value creators include fielding the best and most diverse talent, ensuring a climate for inclusion and pro-actively leveraging diversity and inclusion to impact business results at our agencies and clients.

In every corner of the world, many dimensions of diversity are at play – these include race/ethnicity, nationality, religion, family caregiver status, disability, age and sexual orientation.  These can all affect employment, advancement, as well as team interactions and work product. At the same time, when they are valued, these differences can lead to increased creativity, better financial performance, more effective problem solving, innovation, and a richer experience at work.

The talent issue alone is enough to warrant focus. Recently, IPG publicly released how many minority groups in the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) we have across our company's executive ranks in the U.S. and how our breakdown compares to the sector. (IPG uses the EEOC data because it is the only resource for gauging workforce diversity by level and within specific industries.)

This data shows that 68.7% of IPG’s ‘professional’ talent is white, and in the words of our Chairman and CEO, Michael Roth, while, “IPG is broadly in line with the sector – and you will also note that this is not a great place to be. We can all agree that we MUST do better.” Our need at IPG to attract, retain and develop the best talent – a talent that benefits from sharp cultural insights and creativity – means we look at diversity, equity, inclusion and action as critical business issues.