The task force developed action plans, established accountability, and continually measured and reported back progress. Given the female majority of its workforce and consumers, Sara Lee began developing its diversity initiative in the early 1990s, establishing representation goals to increase the number of women and minorities at management and executive levels. Each division of the company directs its own diversity initiative based on its culture and needs, but overall diversity strategies and annual goals originate at the corporate level. To identify and track high-potential employees, the company uses a confidential internal management review process in which department heads make recommendations that enable targeted employees to acquire skills for advancement. Achievement of such goals is included in annual bonus standards for all corporate senior executives and division presidents.
Catalyst is supported by leading corporations, professional firms, and private foundations.