At Bertelsmann, inclusion means creating a work environment based on trust and psychological safety, where all employees contribute their perspectives and experiences, develop their potential, and contribute to the company’s success. In this context, members of the international Bertelsmann Inclusion Working Group met north of Munich from Monday, March 10, to Wednesday, March 12 for their annual in-person meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to coordinate the first steps in implementing the Bertelsmann Corporate Responsibility program (2026–2028).
Sixteen people from various Bertelsmann divisions attended, including colleagues from Penguin Random House, BMG, Arvato Systems, Arvato, Riverty, Bertelsmann Marketing Services, Bertelsmann Education Group, and Bertelsmann Investments. The Inclusion team from Bertelsmann’s Corporate Responsibility department hosted the meeting.
Advancing inclusion across all divisions
Building on the principles of the “Bertelsmann Inclusion Policy,” participants developed a shared understanding of priorities and approaches for inclusion measures within the new Corporate Responsibility program (2026–2028). Miriam Flocke, Director ESG at Arvato, said: “Now that the new program has launched, it is really worthwhile for us to meet and work together on bringing it to life across the company. This means, for example, that we give clear guidance on how to build and actively shape an inclusive culture, and make inclusion tangible and actionable through practical guidance for leaders and employees.”
Strengthening the inclusion community
As in previous years, in-person exchange between colleagues from different divisions remained a key part of the group’s work, allowing them to share experiences and discuss current challenges. Jerry Laroche, Director HR & Payroll at Bertelsmann Inc. in the US, said: “It’s always great to connect with colleagues who are committed to creating environments where every voice is heard and valued, and people feel encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. The meeting in Munich was really inspiring and showed once again that inclusion at Bertelsmann is a shared, global priority.”
The meeting built on the group’s ongoing exchange. Beyond these in-person meetings, members work together closely throughout the year to further develop initiatives and advance inclusion across their divisions.
Inclusion as part of corporate culture and values
Alongside the practical implementation of the CR program, participants also looked at the broader role of inclusion in day-to-day collaboration and team culture. The discussions explored how inclusive work environments and diverse perspectives can strengthen collaboration and drive innovation across the company. Lisa Gillespie, Head of Inclusion & Impact at DK, said: “The Inclusion Working Group meeting is a real highlight of the year. It gives us the space to connect, share experiences, and inspire each other. It was especially impactful that people could also join virtually, which made inclusion truly tangible.”
The discussions also highlighted the participants’ shared commitment to continue strengthening inclusion at Bertelsmann. Members of the Bertelsmann Inclusion Working Group aim to embed inclusion even more firmly in the company’s culture and everyday work through cross-divisional collaboration and regular exchange.
