Whether it’s 5G, mobile or Fios, Qureshi has a hand in it all as she plots Verizon’s overall corporate strategy, partnership and strategic investments. Under her leadership, Verizon has made some big plays, including acquiring TracFone for more than $6 billion and snatching up cloud-based video conferencing system BlueJeans Network early on in the pandemic. Earlier this year, Verizon committed $10 million to aid organizations committed to equality and social justice. It’s a cause near to Qureshi, who has significant experience working with the humanitarian sector and various United Nations agencies. “To best illustrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion, it’s not about talk, it’s about action. Inclusion is as important to strategy as innovation—both drive the future of a company and the communities it serves,” she says.
The conversation about racial injustice in 2020 has been… crucial, compelling, and complicated; a movement inspired by a moment and we must maintain the momentum to drive lasting, meaningful change.
In what ways can companies best show a sincere commitment to diversity and inclusion?
To best illustrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion, it’s not about talk, it’s about action. Inclusion is as important to strategy as innovation – both drive the future of a company and the communities it serves.
What initiatives in our industry best embrace diversity?
It’s been inspiring to see so many companies approach this issue using their own unique strategies. One initiative developed at Verizon is the AdFellows program which is creating a diverse talent pipeline, providing participants with a rotational work experience and housing in New York. The program is deliberate in achieving a 90% placement rate for full-time positions at Verizon and partner agencies following the fellowship to help change the ratio.
