with $108.2 billion in revenues last year. It scored well in board representation, with five of the 17 board members belonging to an ethnic minority group. Three of that five are African American. The corporation has 142,680 general employees, of which 48,644 are ethnic minorities. Of that number, 19,058 are African American. Eng says Citigroup is one of the most diverse organizations in the world with locations in more than 100 countries. In addition, some 98% of the employees are hired locally. “We believe our diversity greatly enhances our business,” says Eng.
Strengths
- SUPPLIER DIVERSITY
- BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE COCA-COLA CO. Location: Atlanta Type of Business: Beverage Diversity Contact: Edward Gadsden, VP, People Practices & Global Diversity
Founded in 1886, The Coca-Cola Co. produces nearly 400 beverage brands through the world’s largest distribution system of nonalchoholic beverages. Steve Bucherati, director of diversity and workplace fairness, says the company’s approach is to leverage the diversity of its people to build a sustainable and unparalleled competitive advantage that fuels innovation and grows business performance. “This commitment to the community is executed through financial contributions, volunteerism, employee matching gifts, and in-kind contributions directed to a variety of civic and community partnerships,” says Gadsden.
Strengths
- SR. MANAGEMENT
- EMPLOYEE BASE
COORS BREWING CO. Location: Golden, CO Type of Business: Beverage Diversity Contact: LaTonya Jackson, Diversity Coordinator
Although Coors Brewing Co. merged with Molson earlier this year, the basis of the company’s inclusion on this list comes from its 2004 figures. Last year, when Coors was a single company operating with $4 billion in revenues, it had a reasonably good standing reflected in its board: two ethnic minorities sitting on a board of eight, with one African American. Though the numbers might not seem significant, it’s impressive when considering the size of the board. The new company will maintain a global presence and Coors Brewing Co. will relegate itself strictly to U.S. operations.
Strengths
- SR. MANAGEMENT
- BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DAIMLERCHRYSLER Location: Auburn Hills, MI Type of Business: Automotive Diversity Contact: Monica E. Emerson, Executive Director, Corporate Diversity Office
Commitment to diversity is evident in DaimlerChrysler’s total procurement dollars spent with minority vendors. “Supplier diversity initiatives are vital to the development of economic revitalization and job creation,” says Jethro Joseph, senior manager of diversity supplier development. An integral component of the automotive company’s diversity strategy is its Employee Resource Groups, which provide input on workplace and marketplace opportunities. Minorities represent more than 25% of total employees. In addition, DaimlerChrysler continues to support minority students through its scholarships and community outreach programs.
Strengths
- SUPPLIER DIVERSITY
- EMPLOYEE BASE
DARDEN RESTAURANTS INC. Location: Orlando, FL Type of Business: Food services Diversity Contact: Linda Landman-Gonzalez, Director, Diversity & Community Affairs
Darden Restaurants’ strongest efforts as a company are in board representation. Of its 12 board members, four are ethnic minorities, including three African Americans. The company is run by Clarence Otis Jr., an African American who appeared on our “75 Most Powerful Blacks in Corporate America” list. Overall, the company ranked “fair” in senior management, with six African Americans in senior management positions out of 72. Darden Restaurants is the