Name: Dominick D Job Title: Technical Competency Manager - AMS Integrated Delivery Organisation Business Area: IBM Global Services Joined: 1981 Age: 42
How would you describe your current role?
I am part of management team responsible for developing key technical skills and building technical governance programmes. These are programmes that ensure the solutions IBM proposes meet their requirements and are technically the best they can be. I also make sure internal news items regarding technical competency are shared within AMS, throughout IBM via the intranet and externally to customers. My work also involves working closely with Business Consulting Services.
How have you found the support for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans-gender people at IBM?
I've found the support here to be excellent. From my experience there is a lot of acceptance here and I feel comfortable being open and honest about my private life. A good example was when my partner and I attended a major function to celebrate 40 years of IBM in Ireland where the General Country Manager came over to meet my partner. You'll find support here from the highest level.
IBM has a GLBT Global Task Force in place that consists of a number of out executives who meet on a regular basis. The Task Force are also involved in a range of specific initiatives at a regional level. I recently attended the 3rd Global Conference in the States with over 150 delegates, one third of whom where from outside the US. The conference focused on leadership skills and was a fantastic opportunity to build networks and improve visibility. The major theme of the conference was - Full voice. Full power. Global Impact. In essence that means when you're not held back on a personal level you can be more effective at work. We aim to create an environment that allows every GLBT person to be more authentic and therefore more productive.
