Marie Sandler | London, UK
Head of Diversity and Inclusion

I am the AVP HR – Global Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Social ESG at Firstsource, a leading global business process management organisation. With more than 20 years of experience in Human Resources, I have built my career around one core belief: that people perform at their best when they feel valued, included, and able to be themselves.

Over the past five years at Firstsource, I have led the organisation's global DEI and Social ESG agenda, driving initiatives that promote equity, belonging, wellbeing, and social impact across a diverse international workforce. Alongside my professional responsibilities, I am passionate about creating meaningful change through advocacy, education, and mentorship.

I am a facilitator of #IamRemarkable, empowering women and underrepresented groups to build confidence in self-advocacy and celebrate their achievements. I am also an advocate for Source of Pride, our LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group, helping to foster visibility, allyship, and a culture where everyone feels they belong.

My commitment to inclusion is deeply personal. I live with Multiple Sclerosis and have faced significant health challenges throughout my life, including ovarian cancer, medical menopause, and more recently, a diagnosis of bladder cancer. These experiences have shaped my perspective as a leader and strengthened my determination to support others facing disability, chronic illness, menopause, and cancer in the workplace. Through sharing my experiences openly, I have helped create safe spaces for colleagues to seek support, build confidence, and continue thriving in their careers.

Alongside my professional career, I am currently undertaking a PhD, reflecting my commitment to lifelong learning and advancing knowledge that can positively influence organisations and society. I was also honoured to be recognised as EMEA HR Director of the Year, an achievement that reflects my dedication to people leadership, inclusion, and organisational impact.

I believe that true inclusion is achieved when every individual feels seen, heard, respected, and empowered. Through my leadership, advocacy, and lived experience, I strive to create workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive and be authentically themselves!