Brown Forman creates chief diversity role

LOUISVILLE, Ky. Brown-Forman has appointed Ralph de Chabert as the company’s first chief diversity officer, effective Dec. 18.

As chief diversity officer, Ralph de Chabert will be responsible for developing and implementing a global diversity and inclusion strategy, with an initial focus on the United States. His work will include Brown-Forman’s marketing efforts with diverse consumer groups, the composition of the company’s workforce, the diversity of its suppliers and the breadth of its community involvement.

de Chabert has a significant track record of achievement, having spent nearly seven years leading McKesson's diversity and inclusion efforts from its world headquarters in San Francisco. At McKesson, he served as vp of employee relations and diversity. During his tenure, de Chabert institutionalized diversity as a corporate best practice and aligned diversity initiatives with the core business goals. He joined Safeway earlier this year as chief diversity officer before deciding to join Brown-Forman as chief diversity officer and relocating nearer to his family in Ohio.