A new study published by the Association for Project Management (APM) has shed light on the early career experiences of racially diverse project professionals, urging employers to bolster their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices.
The report, Improving the Early-Career Experiences of Racially Diverse Project Professionals, is believed to be the first of its kind to explore this topic in the UK and Australian business and construction sectors.
Led by Dr Christina Scott-Young, Dr Jessica Borg, and Dr Naomi Borg from RMIT University and Turner and Townsend, the research reveals concerning levels of discrimination. Nearly three-quarters of women and half of the men surveyed reported experiencing identity-based discrimination in their workplace, with almost half facing racial discrimination, particularly in the UK.
The researchers emphasise the need for action, stating, “We found it concerning that discrimination was so prevalent towards early career diverse project management professionals. We hope that our research helps highlight this issue and, in turn, helps encourage action towards creating a more inclusive project management community.”
While many organisations have diversity management policies in place, the study found that enforcement often falls short. The authors recommend several measures for employers, universities, and professional bodies:
- Improve onboarding processes and increase managerial and peer support
- Conduct audits of diversity and inclusion policy effectiveness
- Implement additional diversity and inclusion measures and training
- Actively listen to diverse employees about their specific needs
The report also highlights positive initiatives, such as MIGSO-PCUBED’s comprehensive DEI programme in the UK. This includes affinity groups, reverse mentoring, and an allyship programme, demonstrating the potential for meaningful change within the industry.
Despite the challenges uncovered, the researchers are optimistic. They note, “Our research tells a story not only of discrimination but also of inclusion. It is from looking at the duality and the complexity of these experiences that we can start to better understand how best to support a racially diverse project management workforce.”
As the project management field continues to evolve, this research serves as a crucial stepping stone towards creating a more equitable and diverse profession. The authors call for continued research and action to foster a more inclusive environment for all project professionals.
