The goal of the new chair is to foster research on gender differences in career advancement, salaries, and entrepreneurial activities. Social and organizational processes and mechanisms will be studied to identify opportunities to reduce inequalities in this area. In addition, the chair will serve as a platform for exchange between leaders of diverse cultural backgrounds.  

“For us at Volkswagen, diversity means finding the right people for the right job at every level, regardless of cultural heritage, age, or gender. Only those who consider diversity today can imagine its impact tomorrow,” says Hiltrud D. Werner, member of the board of management – integrity and legal affairs, Volkswagen AG. “We are very much looking forward to support this vision with Tatiana Lluent as a great appointment for this chair.” 

Advancing women and cultural diversity in organizations is a key research focus of the Volkswagen Group Junior Chair for Diversity in Organizations. “Progress in reducing gender inequalities - as measured by wage gaps and the number of women in leadership positions - is stalled,” Prof. Lluent says. “We will examine and evaluate the many reasons for this to continue to advance gender equality, being able to exchange ideas with leaders at VW through this chair is a great opportunity that will favor the production of impactful research.”  

Tatiana Lluent joined ESMT as assistant professor of strategy in July 2021. Before joining ESMT, she earned her doctorate in business administration at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business. She earned both her bachelor and master degrees in business administration at ESSEC Business School. 

The ceremonial inauguration of the new chair will take place today, October 7, at 6 p.m. at ESMT. More information about the program and participation may be found here.