Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Influencers
The DE&I Influencers list honors individuals who are advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within their organizations and across the workforce solutions ecosystem at large.
Chris Webber
Honoree profile
Chris Webber, team lead, strategic resourcing with World Wide Technology, has spearheaded initiatives that not only prioritize diversity but also emphasize the importance of belonging in the workplace. “I always say DEIB,” he explains. “Some organizations just have D&E, or DE&I, but if it doesn’t have that B, it’s incomplete.”
Webber is committed to creating lasting change. He understands that true diversity goes beyond quotas and surface-level initiatives; it’s about fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and included.
“I always lead with the data and benefits when discussing DEIB,” he says. “Because the data shows that when you hire DEIB, it’s financially beneficial for your organization.” At the end of the day, that’s the foundation, he continues. “You can’t build anything that will last without a firm foundation. Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is what takes your organization from good to great — it’s the secret sauce.”
At the core of his work is his dedication to supporting underrepresented groups in the IT workforce, which has been his profession for over 20 years. “There is no pipeline problem,” he says, “but there is a preparation problem. My main mission at this stage of my career is to equip, educate and empower the underrepresented so they can represent in excellence.”
My main mission at this stage of my career is to equip, educate and empower the underrepresented so they can represent in excellence.
What sets Webber apart is his hands-on approach to mentoring underrepresented talent, remaining deeply involved in their professional development journey. From résumé and interview workshops to ongoing guidance, he ensures that every individual he supports has the tools and guidance they need to succeed.
He is a vocal advocate for DE&I within his own company and the broader industry, whether it’s conducting interviews, leading workshops or advocating for policy changes.
Looking ahead, Webber envisions a future where DE&I is not just a buzzword but a guiding principle in every aspect of business. In retirement, he plans to establish his own staffing company focused exclusively on supporting diverse talent.