Driving Racial Equity at The Co-Op - Turning Data into Actionable Change

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Zahoor Ahmad, who’s leading the charge at the Co-op when it comes to turning big talk about racial equity into real action. 

We’re getting into everything from unconscious bias to how data (yes, actual numbers) can help create fairer workplaces. 

Zahoor brings decades of experience, loads of honesty, and the kind of clarity that cuts through the fluff. 

This one’s essential listening if you’re serious about building truly inclusive cultures - not just performative posters in the hallway.

Highlights:

(2:10) Current Relevance of Racial Equity

(5:20) Challenges and Misconceptions in EDI

(11:34) Impact of Media and Public Perception

(18:40) Structural Inequality and Data-Driven Change

(37:43) Addressing Systemic Racism and Individual Experiences

(46:07) The Role of Compassionate Leadership

(49:31) Future Vision for EDI

(55:37) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Zahoor Ahmad is Group Head of Social Mobility, Inclusion and Belonging for the Co-op group with over two decades of experience in equality, diversity and inclusion practice garnered across and range of industries, including the public, private and charitable sectors. He currently serves as a member of the Co-op Group’s Exec Board. 

As a graduate of psychology, he fosters a behavioural approach, and has been instrumental in pioneering approaches to tackling non-inclusive behaviours and structural inequalities.

He has led D&I teams in the MoD, the finance sector, the emergency services and the charitable sector. He has worked in a wide range of multi-agency environments collaborating and leading programmes across education, health and early careers. He is a specialist inclusive coach and mentor, and frequent keynote speaker on topics ranging from socio-economic inequality to re-imagining inclusive leadership.

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