Colt CEO Keri Gilder champions neurodiversity in the workplace

Colt Technology Services is committed to attracting and developing the best and brightest from all walks of life and creating an environment where everyone can make their mark.

Colt understands that inclusive leadership starts with visibility. In a powerful piece by Valuable 500, Colt CEO Keri Gilder shares how dyslexia isn’t a hurdle, but her differentiator, and why neuroinclusion is needed in the workplace.

Introducing the article, Valuable 500 says: "The C-suite needs more minds like Keri Gilder's. The Colt Technology Services CEO shares with us why dyslexia isn't something she's “overcome” - it's what makes her an exceptional leader. Keri openly discusses how her dyslexia has shaped her leadership style - giving her the ability to think outside the box and adapt quickly when situations change. From commercial sales to boardroom decision-making, these cognitive differences have been genuine competitive advantages. This is exactly why leadership visibility matters. When leaders share their stories, others feel safe to follow – and that’s what leads to truly inclusive workplaces. Thank you, Keri, for showing that different minds bring different gifts, and that the best leaders aren't afraid to embrace both the strengths and challenges that come with thinking differently."

Fostering an innovative and exceptional workplace

"Neurodiversity can make people and workplaces extraordinary. My own experience with dyslexia, and working with some of the tech industry’s most brilliant minds at Colt, are a testament to what we can achieve when we champion different gifts. Dyslexia is a powerful differentiator in the way I think and the skills I bring to the table as CEO," writes Keri.

"For all the gifts that my neurodivergence has given me, I fully embrace the challenges – and I invite everyone I work with to do the same, because a diverse and inclusive workforce is one that thrives. Neuroinclusion is a key element of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) which is core to our ESG strategy at Colt. We want to foster an innovative, exceptional and inclusive place to work and by embracing neurodiversity, we are enriching our culture and our competitive advantage. I am proud to lead a company that embraces differences and empowers everyone to be extraordinary," adds Keri.

Read the full article by Colt CEO Keri Gilder.

Passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion

As CEO, Keri is responsible for executing Colt’s strategy which centres around transforming the way the world works through the power of connectivity. Keri is passionate about promoting Inclusion and Diversity to ensure Colt is a business where everyone feels they can bring their true selves to work. Keri brings this passion to the wider industry as the Chair of the TM Forum’s Diversity & Inclusion Council and President of the Global Telecom Women's Network.

Neurodiversity enriches workplace culture

Neurodiversity is a critical element of Colt's DE&I, which is a key part of its ESG strategy to create an innovative, exceptional and inclusive workplace.

"ESG initiatives will only be truly successful if there is a sharp focus on DE&I as it lays the foundation for long-term sustainability. By embracing and investing in neurodiversity, we are enhancing inclusivity and diversity and enriching our culture. We know that neurodivergent individuals bring unique strengths and perspectives that drive innovation and problem-solving; they aren’t just positive additions to the workplace but a proven competitive advantage," says Colt.

By providing appropriate adjustments and understanding for its neurodivergent colleagues, Colt is helping to improve well-being and retention, boost productivity, and create a more supportive work environment. Colt has implemented various measures to increase neurodiversity awareness, such as including the publication of neurodiversity toolkits; employee training on recruiting and supporting neurodivergent employees; fireside chats to educate its people further on neurodiversity; and improved accessibility in its offices, such as installing quiet zones.