Shivji this year segued from his CFO post at E! to a broader role overseeing finance and business matters at NBCU. While he’s bottom line-focused, he also serves as a mentor in NBCU’s employee resource group for Asian Pacific Americans, and mentors in the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment Leaders Fellowship. “Not limited to our industry, but I feel that ageism doesn’t get nearly enough attention,” Shivji says. “There will likely be a sea change as Millennials age up and Gen Z moves further through the workforce.”
What does your company/organization do to ensure all employees feel included?
NBCUniversal continues to be a big advocate of Employee Resource Groups, which are instrumental in fostering community building, growing the business and developing future leaders. There are numerous Employee Resource Groups at NBCU, which range from the Women’s Network to OUT@NBCUniversal and Unidos, and more. Seeing their work and employee engagement events gives a newfound appreciation for the breadth of the company and power of inclusion across all levels of the organization.
How can diversity be better incorporated into the recruiting process?
Quite simply, to attract and retain the best talent, diversity has to be incorporated into the recruiting process. It has to start as early as possible, with internships and early career pipeline programs.
Can you share a successful diversity program at your company or one you’ve observed at another company or organization?
I am consistently impressed by the CAPE Leaders Fellowship run by the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment. The reach and scope of the program help prepare the next generation of creative executives with the skills and professional network to break into the ranks of senior management.
What questions is the industry not yet asking in its efforts to be more diverse and inclusive that it should be?
Not limited to our industry, but I feel that ageism doesn’t get nearly enough attention. There will likely be a sea change as millennials age up and Gen Z moves further through the workforce.
Which current television show/s best embrace diversity?
I’m currently enjoying the diverse perspectives in “Five Bedrooms” and in content from Sky Studios—especially “The Reluctant Landlord” with Romesh Ranganathan.
