Men as Allies – Driving Inclusive Leadership

Paul Asquith, Regional Director at Selco Builders Warehouse, reflections from Men as Allies – Driving Inclusive Leadership Workshop

Attending the pilot Men as Allies – Driving Inclusive Leadership workshop was a genuinely eye-opening experience for me. One of the biggest takeaways was gaining a deeper understanding of our industry diversity statistics and the lived experience gap – data that really highlighted for me the difference between what organisations believe they’re doing against individuals actual experience in the workplace.

I was also struck by how others outside our industry may perceive the environment we work in, as well as the barriers some colleagues face that I may never personally experience. This gave me a new perspective on the importance of listening, learning, and actively challenging assumptions. The workshop also helped me reflect on what we currently have in place within Selco and where we still have opportunities to learn and grow.

The content was extremely thought-provoking, particularly for me the “What is your destiny?” exercise, encouraged real self-reflection and throughout the entire day, the passion shown by the facilitator made the session engaging and impactful.

What I’ve Taken Forward Since the Workshop

The workshop wasn’t just informative; it prompted real, practical action. Since attending, I have:

• Presented a segment on EDI at our annual business conference.
• Developed a plan to increase EDI awareness across my region and the wider business.
• Added EDI as a regular agenda item at my Regional Store Managers meetings so we can embed these values into our everyday.
• Joined Selco’s Inclusion Working Group as an operational sponsor, so I can play an active role in shaping our future approach.
• Appointed a Female Store Manager to our Talent Working Group to focus specifically on developing our female talent into senior roles.
• Made recommendations for further education and training on EDI within the business.
• Reflected on how my own leadership style may be perceived and where I can be more intentionally inclusive

These changes have already started meaningful conversations, and I believe they’re helping create an environment where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential.

Why I’d Recommend the Workshop

I would wholeheartedly recommend this workshop to other peers and leaders. It raises awareness, encourages self-reflection, and reinforces why inclusion is not just “nice to have” but essential to strengthening our culture and our brand. I’m confident that, as more leaders engage with this programme, we’ll continue to break down perceived barriers and build a more inclusive community.