EqualVoice United Special

Now, diversity is even more important

Annabella Bassler, CFO Ringier Group and EqualVoice Initiator

Leadership today requires more than operational excellence; it demands integrity and the willingness to question existing power structures.

Diversity is not a trend – it is an expression of core values such as equal opportunities, respect, and justice. In times of change, growing uncertainty, and increasing social polarization, it is more important than ever not only to commit to these values but to actively live them. As CFO of Ringier and initiator of the EqualVoice initiative, this is exactly what concerns me: How do we succeed in not only celebrating diversity but structurally embedding it – in leadership, organizations, and society?

In an environment characterized by global crises, disruptive technologies, and profound transformation processes, leaders bear special responsibility. Leadership today means more than operational excellence or achieving short-term targets – it demands integrity. Integrity means standing up for fairness and participation, even when it’s uncomfortable. It means opening spaces for different perspectives, listening, questioning oneself – and also having the courage to change existing power structures to create space for new voices.

Heterogeneity as a Driver

Diversity is not a “nice to have” but a strategic success factor. Numerous studies prove: companies with diverse leadership teams are not only more creative but also more profitable, innovative, and resilient. Different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives lead to better decisions and solutions that are more sustainable in a complex world. And diversity is not just an economic issue – it is also a driver of innovation in science, politics, and culture. Progress rarely arises in homogeneous groups; it grows where differences meet and are respectfully transformed into something new.

But diversity does not happen automatically. It requires clear goals, binding structures, and leaders who not only allow diversity but consciously promote it – even when it’s uncomfortable or existing habits need to be questioned. Critical voices are not new: diversity is a buzzword, equality costs efficiency, quotas undermine performance. Such objections must be taken seriously – and they must be met with facts, dialogue, and determination. Reality shows: monocultures in decision-making structures carry the risk of thought bubbles, blind spots, and wrong decisions, while heterogeneous teams develop broader and more sustainable solutions. Companies that ignore diversity risk losing connection to markets, talent, and societal expectations.

Especially at this time, when social tensions are increasing and achievements in equality are being questioned, it is crucial to stick to our fundamental beliefs. “Stick to your values” is not a marketing slogan – it is a call to responsibility. Progress does not happen by chance, but through consistent action. This includes openly addressing grievances, building bridges between different groups, and creating spaces for dialogue – not only in boardrooms, but at all levels of an organization.

With EqualVoice, we measure visibility – and we want more: to create awareness for structures that enable genuine participation. Visibility is a first step, but sustainable impact only arises when organizations dismantle barriers, create equal opportunities, and overcome systematic disadvantages. With the EqualVoice United network, we connect companies and personalities who understand equality not as a short-term image campaign, but as a business and social necessity. They act out of conviction – because they have recognized that diversity and future viability are inextricably linked.

Taking Responsibility

Impactful leadership is shown above all in difficult moments: when you do not remain silent, but take a stand; when you inspire, instead of just reacting; when you do not just manage existing processes, but have the courage to break new ground – even if it seems uncomfortable at first. Now is the time to take responsibility – for an inclusive economy, a just society, and a future where no one is left behind.

Diversity is not a goal that one “achieves” and checks off. It is a continuous process, constant learning, a constant re-evaluation of our perspectives. Those who lead today must develop the ability to see not chaos in diversity, but potential – and the determination to unleash this potential. This requires courage, clarity, and above all: integrity.

September, 2025

Source: Translation of an article first published in HANDELSZEITUNG, EqualVoice United Special, on September 04, 2025.