We invited colleagues and peers to hear from Toby about creating actionable strategies to develop a more inclusive workforce, while enjoying some nibbles and wine – it was a book launch, after all!

But why, as an energy consultancy, did we want to partner with Toby? The answer was clear - I wanted to share him.

Toby and his consultancy, Mildon are supportive, practical, pioneering, and dedicated to doing good. But they’re also just cool.

Toby has worked with top organisations across various industries to design and implement successful inclusive strategies. Toby’s approach focuses on creating systemic change by embedding inclusivity into organisational culture and processes.

I first heard Toby speaking at an event, and I was so inspired that I immediately followed up with him, asking for a meeting to discuss his programmes for transforming workplace cultures.

At Xodus, we believe that inclusivity is key to empowering employees to reach their full potential. We are fostering a culture where everyone—regardless of background, gender, ethnicity, or other attributes—feels valued, included, and able to grow. An environment where employees feel like they belong from day one.

By engaging with Toby, we were able to better realise this ambition. Using his practical insights and expertise to help shape Xodus and our people strategy, at a time of considerable growth, and support us in achieving our mission to make Xodus the place to work.

With significant workforce diversity gaps in energy, Toby shared why this lack of diversity stagnates the sector’s ability to innovate, and how inclusive leadership (and workplaces) will result in a resilient, future-proof workforce, capable of achieving net zero.

• Inclusivity fosters a workplace where diverse perspectives are embraced. When individuals from different backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints collaborate, it sparks creativity and leads to innovative solutions.
• Inclusive environments lead to better decision-making. When teams are diverse and inclusive, they are more likely to consider various angles of a problem, challenge assumptions, and arrive at more comprehensive and informed decisions.
• Inclusivity is vital for employee satisfaction and retention. When employees feel valued, respected, and included, they are more engaged and loyal to their organisation.
• Inclusive workplaces attract top talent. Millennials and Generation Z, who prioritise values like justice, equality, and environmental responsibility, are more likely to choose organisations that demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
• In today’s global market, businesses serve diverse customer bases. Having a workforce that mirrors this diversity helps companies better understand and meet the needs of their clients, leading to improved customer satisfaction and stronger brand loyalty.
• Senior leadership must actively engage in diversity and inclusion. To ensure meaningful impact and organisational change, it must be felt from the top, with initiatives and efforts being continually assessed, measured and improved upon.
• Inclusivity is a moral imperative. Organisations have a responsibility to create environments where all individuals can thrive, regardless of their background. Inclusivity promotes fairness and equality, contributing to a more just society.

Toby’s expertise in building inclusive workplaces will continue to be invaluable as we shape Xodus’ people strategy, fostering a more equitable work environment.

Let’s open conversations, without fear, and build a future where every workplace thrives.

You can learn more about Toby’s work at www.mildon.co.uk