1. Hispanics are the largest minority in the nation. What does this mean to corporate America? How should corporate America respond to this changing demographic?
The growth of the Hispanic community represents a tremendous opportunity for Corporate America.In responding to this changing demographic, corporations should build upon their internal operations to adequately serve this vital segment of the population. Corporate America’s response to this change in demographics needs to be comprehensive, from inclusive employment & governance practices to its overall support of the Hispanic community through philanthropy and volunteerism.
At Ford, we have been proactively working to achieve these goals, from having a Hispanic voice on our Board of Directors to the development of an extensive portfolio of community initiatives that fosters education, safety, and tells the story of Hispanic contributions to America.
2. What role should HACR have in representing the Hispanic community with corporate America? HACR is a key organization for the Hispanic community.It should continue to work with corporate America and serve as a resource for corporations as they integrate Hispanic strategies into their business practices.
At Ford, we consider HACR a valuable partner as together we continue to work on implementing successful Hispanic strategies for our business.
3. Do you think that corporate America is aware what advocacy organizations such as HACR or others do to promote inclusion and corporate responsibility?
I think Corporate America is aware of the work that organizations like HACR do to promote inclusion and corporate responsibility, but in today’s growing economy and as businesses continue to grow and expand, it is very important that HACR increases its outreach to companies that are not current HACR partners. A great way to do this is to share other corporate best practices and for HACR to continue to position itself as a resource to help corporations implement successful Hispanic strategies.
4. HACR is celebrating its 20th Anniversary. What would you like to see for the next 20 years of the organization?
First, I’d like to commend HACR for working as partners with corporations over the last 20 years looking at governance, philanthropy, procurement and employment practices for the Hispanic community.
As we look at the next 20 years at a more competitive, global marketplace HACR has tremendous potential to expand the dialogue with all businesses serving the United States market, whether US based or not. We at Ford look forward to a continued partnership with HACR in the future and are excited about some of HACR"s new leadership initatives.
5. What is the business case for corporate responsibility or inclusion as it relates to employment opportunities?
It is all about stakeholders – existing and prospective customers.
Corporations are successful when they understand and think like the market place. The Hispanic community is a market segment that corporations cannot afford to overlook or serve inadequately.
At Ford, we understand this as evidenced by the fact that our marketing efforts are led by Francisco Codina.He serves as Fords’ Group Vice President, North America Marketing, Sales and Service.
