Global package delivery giant UPS announced the appointment of Charlene Thomas to the newly created position of Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. In her new role, Thomas will be responsible for furthering UPS’s programs and initiatives that infuse diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) into all aspects of the company, and tracking and communicating progress toward DEI goals. Thomas will also engage with UPS suppliers, customers and other external partners to encourage the adoption of more proactive DEI efforts.

UPS stated that the creation of the new Chief DEI Officer position signals a significant step forward for the company as it strives to build a more inclusive and equitable operating environment.

UPS Chief Executive Officer Carol Tomé said:

“Charlene’s leadership has been instrumental as we’ve evolved our H.R. strategy and approach. Her vision, experience and knowledge of UPS will be great assets as she champions diversity, equity and inclusion as part of our people-led strategy to make UPS an even better place to work.”

Thomas joined UPS in 1989, most recently serving as the company’s Chief Human Resources Officer. According to UPS, in her role as CHRO, she led the transformation of UPS’s global H.R. team, including the development of a new strategy for talent and performance management, leadership and culture for UPS’s 528,000 employees. 

The company also announced that it has hired Darrell Ford, currently CHRO at chemicals giant DuPont, as its new Chief Human Resources Officer. Both appointments are effective January 1, 2021.