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People
Guiding through complexity
We have the skills and experience to steer you through difficult and sometimes divisive territory.
Diversity by Design was co-founded by Simon Fanshawe OBE, who leads on development and delivery, and Roy Hutchins, whose training expertise informs every approach and tool in the toolkit.
Together, they have forged a way of working that is intellectually rigorous, bravely nuanced, and highly entertaining, which means you’ll enjoy as well as learn from the process.
Simon Fanshawe OBE
Simon has been working with organisations on their EDI policies and practices in this capacity since 2015. In 2022, HR magazine placed him second in their list of ‘most original thinkers in diversity’ . In the same year his book, ‘The Power of Difference’ was published by Kogan Page and won the Chartered Management Institute book of the year.
Alongside his commitment to Diversity by Design, Simon remains a sought-after journalist and broadcaster, writing extensively on equality, social policy, politics, the arts, and culture. He currently writes regularly in Sunday Times Business. He also co-hosts the Fearless Diversity podcast.
Simon also brings huge personal insight and professional credibility to the table.
In 1989, he was one of the six original founders of Stonewall, which transformed the face of gay rights. He also has wide-ranging experience in governance and organisational change across the public and private sectors and currently serves on the Boards of the Hexagon Housing and PowerfulWomen
In 2013, Simon was awarded an OBE for services to Higher Education. He was also made an Honorary Doctor of the University of Sussex for services to diversity and human rights, having previously served as Chair of the Council since 2007.
Roy Hutchins
After a highly successful career in the arts, Roy made the move into management consultancy, following requests from a number of organisations to make their training more relevant and engaging.
In conjunction with fellow consultants and clients, Roy wrote and designed original theatre and video-based development programmes for several large consultancies, before becoming a director and senior consultant for Astar Management Consultants Ltd.
Roy’s areas of training design have included equal opportunity programmes, disability awareness programmes, sexual and racial harassment programmes, bullying in the workplace programmes, first contact officer training, and positive action training for ethnic minorities – among many, many more.
Prior to this, Roy had an award-winning career as a writer, director, performer, and producer for theatre, radio and television. Roy has also lectured at the University of Brighton and worked extensively with education charities, implementing conflict resolution programmes and drama based workshops in London schools and pupil referral units.
Roy’s experience means he is particularly adept at understanding the needs of organisations and designing training that is relevant and highly engaging.
Let’s start the conversation.
You don’t need to know the solutions you are looking for – everything begins with a conversation so please get in touch to find out more.
What our clients say
If you’d welcome some clarity and a refreshed sense of direction for your work on EDI, we’d love to help, just as we’ve helped clients such as Babcock, Saïd Business School, Stonewater Housing and Severn Trent Water to build inclusive workplaces that also deliver strategic advantage. Take a look at our Client stories to see just how impactful this can be.
It was a hugely enjoyable process that resulted in a D&I strategy that has landed brilliantly. We know we have avoided the politics and designed something that is relevant for our organisation that will last for years to come.
Director of Human Resources
After hearing Simon at a national event it struck me how refreshing his views on EDI were and how much my organisation would benefit from reframing and refreshing how we approach it, mainly building confidence in managers to engage and learn, rather than be afraid of what they may or may not know or understand.
Chief Fire Officer
Your direct approach is very appealing – you are challenging and provocative but within boundaries that are based on deep rooted experience and knowledge. So I feel safe in your hands to push where others can’t or won’t.
Director of People, Culture & Change
Simon is charming, funny and keeps things real. His sense of humour, and real life stories, made the session enjoyable even when the subject matter was challenging.
CEO
Simon boosts confidence in discussing EDI. His relaxed style engages all audience levels, making situations easier to navigate. Our colleagues enjoyed the sessions, providing positive feedback and feeling empowered for future conversations.
Head of People
