Head of Inclusion and Diversity in Southampton

We’re looking for a senior leader to drive Leonardo’s Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) strategy across all our UK sites and share best practices across the Leonardo Group. This is a strategic role with real impact, helping us create an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and supported. Leonardo has strong foundations in I&D, with committed leaders, established programmes, and external partnerships. Your role will take us to the next level, turning strategy into action and ensuring we attract, retain, and develop a diverse workforce. You will be able to influence at a senior level, inspire others to follow your lead, and manage multiple projects simultaneously across the four strategic focus areas of Attraction & Recruitment, Development & Inclusive Culture, and Influence & Industry. Strong stakeholder management skills are essential, both internally and with external partners who support delivery of the strategy.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the implementation of the UK I&D strategy and influence senior leaders to champion inclusion.
• Act as the I&D subject‑matter expert, advising leaders and employees.
• Partner with Talent Attraction and external providers to attract diverse talent and ensure a fair and inclusive selection process.
• Oversee inclusion programmes and partnerships, ensuring they deliver measurable impact.
• Work with Learning & Development and Wellbeing teams to embed inclusive practices and deliver training.
• Manage a yearly budget to support the development of I&D programmes and activations across the U.K.
• Support employee network groups and raise awareness of inclusion topics.
• Manage the annual I&D calendar and communications internally and externally.
• Engage with external bodies to stay aligned with best practice and industry developments.
• Collaborate internationally, adapting to different cultures and ways of working.

What You’ll Bring

• Strong influencing and stakeholder management skills at senior level.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an inclusive mindset.
• Deep knowledge of I&D best practice and relevant legislation.
• Ability to implement complex strategies in large or matrixed organisations.
• Cultural awareness and understanding of global inclusion issues.
• Proven ability to inspire, lead, and build trusted relationships.
• High emotional intelligence and sound judgement.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Why Join Us

• Time to Recharge – generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future – benefit from our award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters – free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Rewarding Performance – all employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning – free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a Friend – receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks – spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible Working – flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part‑time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.

Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology and enhancing global safety. At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know. Be part of something bigger – apply now!