Ajamu Johnson

Johnson’s goal is to ensure the company has the most diverse partners, resources and thinking in its supply chain, both through direct vendors and suppliers to its direct vendors. Under his leadership, the supplier diversity program procured more than $3.6 billion with diverse-owned vendors in 2017. This was a 286 percent increase over seven years. “Our industry has the opportunity to continue to increase the inclusivity of C-suites and boardrooms,” Johnson says.

A February 2018 UCLA study revealed that of the 45 new scripted shows approved for 2017-18 across broadcast, cable and digital platforms, only four were from creators of color, all of whom were black. What is your reaction to this report?
That is disappointing. I would hope our efforts lead to increased ethnic (all ethnicities) and gender diversity for future slates.

In what areas should the industry step up its efforts with regard to diversity and inclusion?
Our industry has the opportunity to continue to increase the inclusivity of C-suites and boardrooms.

What’s been the most dramatic change in your sector of the business today vs. three years ago?
It feels like there is more overlap between legacy industries. A company that began as a solely as a video, broadband, production, tech, or entertainment company can now be all in one. Comcast is a great example of a company that has transformed into a global media and technology company.

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