Damon Phillips

How to boost engagement and viewership? Phillips had the bright idea earlier this year to run contests during televised games for viewers to win cash for predicting various game details—winners and points scored. Appointed to his current position in early 2018, he spent the previous 10 years in executive roles at ESPN. “It’s important to challenge leaders and hiring managers to engage beyond their own personal and professional networks, even when you’re not seeking candidates,” Phillips says. That helps create a candidate pool when positions are available.

How can diversity be better incorporated into the recruiting process?
It’s important to challenge leaders and hiring managers to continue to engage beyond their own personal and professional networks, even when you’re not seeking candidates. That helps curate a diverse base of candidates for when positions are available. I think it’s also key to market positions, and your company overall, to the trade and networking organizations that have diverse memberships and audiences. Senior-level leaders must consistently champion diversity initiatives, both inside and outside the organization.

Can you share a successful diversity program at your company or one you’ve observed at another company or organization?
Unconscious bias training was very valuable and interesting to me. It makes you aware it does exist and can have an impact. It’s a conversation starter and, if executed correctly, it provides teachable moments.

Which current television show/s best embrace diversity?
“This is Us” is an excellent example, as are the Summer Olympics.