DEI in accounting deloitte rollback DEI programs what it all means - Accounting Voices Podcast

Episode 108

The Big DEI Split: What Smart Accounting Firms Are Doing

Published on: 25th February, 2025

In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown discusses the significant shift in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at Deloitte, where the US branch has decided to shut down its DEI program while the UK branch continues its commitment. This split reflects a broader trend among major corporations retreating from DEI commitments, influenced by political changes and government contracts.

Brown emphasizes the implications for talent acquisition and retention in the accounting profession, which has historically struggled with diversity. He outlines three potential approaches for firms moving forward and provides actionable insights for accounting leaders to navigate this evolving landscape.

Takeaways:

-Deloitte has announced the shutdown of its DEI program.

-The split between Deloitte US and UK highlights a significant corporate divide.

-Political influences are driving major companies to retreat from DEI commitments.

-Accounting firms face a recruitment crisis, exacerbated by a lack of diversity.

-Meritocracy and diversity can coexist, but it's a complex balance.

-Firms must assess their talent pipeline and recruitment strategies.

-Global implications of DEI stances must be considered by international firms.

-Client expectations regarding DEI can impact revenue.

  • Clear communication strategies are essential for any policy changes.
  • The DEI debate is evolving and will shape the future of accounting.

You can check out the video version of this with visuals and graphics here on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/6uO6LdI1Ltk

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About the Podcast

Accounting Voices Podcast
Accounting Voices helps people in the accounting world stay relevant visible and vocal. Host Rob Brown interprets trends reshaping the profession and gives listeners insight to build authority influence and a stronger voice in firms and markets.
Accounting Voices, hosted by Rob Brown, helps decision makers and leaders in accounting and finance stay relevant, visible and vocal in a profession being reshaped by technology, private equity, regulation and shifting client expectations. Each episode interprets the trends disrupting accounting and finance such as AI, automation, M&A, talent and the move to advisory and translates them into practical insight that strengthens authority and influence.
Accounting Voices is also a platform for the wider ecosystem of networks, associations, educators, consultants, software vendors and technology experts who serve accountants and finance professionals worldwide. It extends into regular Accounting Voices networking sessions that connect this audience and amplify ideas that move the profession forward. With its international reach and long shelf life the show delivers credibility and commercial value for listeners and sponsors alike. Search for "Accounting Voices" on YouTube for all episodes and connect with Rob Brown on LinkedIn to find out more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

About your host

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Rob Brown

ob Brown is the creator and host of the Accounting Voices Network, a media platform that includes the flagship solo podcast Accounting Voices and the panel shows Accounting M&A and Accounting Tech. He chairs conferences, panels and virtual events worldwide and is recognised as a leading advocate for the accounting profession.

He is an accomplished speaker and authority on trust, reputation, employer brand, talent, succession, executive presence and the forces shaping the future of accounting. Rob is the author of the bestselling book Build Your Reputation (Wiley) and his TEDx talk The Personal Brand of You has been viewed more than 400,000 times.

A former co-founder of the Accounting Influencers Roundtable, Rob now focuses on amplifying the voices of leaders, firms, networks, vendors and influencers across the global accounting ecosystem.

Outside of work he is a stroke survivor, lives with epilepsy, holds a black belt in kickboxing and is based in Nottingham, UK. He plays chess and backgammon, loves orange chocolate and is allergic to grapefruit.