What’s Next for DEI in Business?

Joining us today is David Willans, Director of Sustainability at Bladonmore, to unpack the shifting dynamics of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in today’s business and political climate. As media narratives and stakeholder pressures intensify, companies are responding in divergent ways. Some are retreating, others reframing, and a few holding the line. David explores the critical disconnect between public values and DEI program perceptions, revealing how communication missteps have opened the door for politicization and resistance. He underscores the importance of data and storytelling in grounding DEI efforts within business strategy and building long-term credibility. With clarity and candor, this conversation surfaces both the structural challenges and new opportunities to move DEI from controversy toward constructive change.