In this new blog series "Discussing Diversity," CohnReznick Senior Campus Recruiting Specialist Anita Galiano answers questions about diversity, equity and inclusion and how CohnReznick contributes to a welcoming workplace environment for all.
 

What is the overall mission of CohnReznick?

Our mission is to provide forward-thinking solutions, service that exceeds expectations and create opportunity, value and trust for our clients, our people and our communities. Our vision: we will be a firm of excellence and innovation–providing invaluable eservices and insights to our clients; fostering a workplace culture that develops leaders and values diversity; and working to make our communities better.

How do you incorporate values of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace?

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are all central to how CohnReznick identifies as a firm and a community. They are woven into everyday conversations to elevate the work we do for our clients, and motivate us toward creating change in our communities.​

• DIVERSITY: We find strength in our differences, and we affirm our similarities—including the visible and invisible dimensions of a person's background, belief, values, culture and ideas.
• EQUITY: Seeks to ensure everyone receives opportunities and access, regardless of where they start. It's our responsibility to identify and eliminate barriers, redistribute power and ensure everyone gets what they need to succeed, achieve, contribute and belong.
• INCLUSION: Invites and values the active participation and contributions of all people. We ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for all, within our firm and within our broader communities. 
• BELONGING: An individual feels comfortable to bring their entire authentic self to work with their intersecting identities embraced, celebrated and engaged.

What DE&I programs or initiatives does the company have in place?

We have our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) National Council, which works to develop and implement a national DEIB action plan to address everything from talent development, supplier diversity, leadership and accountability.

We also offer Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which include:

• CR BLAC (CohnReznick Black Action Council): Partners with the executive board and firm leadership to drive fundamental change in how the firm recruits, retains and develops Black professionals in all practice areas. 
• PRIDE: Aims to foster a work environment where LGBTQ+ and all employees can bring their authentic self to work, feel a sense of belonging and successfully advance their careers through networking, mentoring and sharing information.
• WomenCAN (Collaborative Advocacy Network): A broad women’s network and community of support providing resources needed for long-term development and a platform for career growth through advanced training and networking programs.
• Executive Women’s Forum: A client-facing business development initiative designed to foster relationship building with clients, prospects and referral sources.  Positions our women as leaders in their communities while aligning with client values of gender diversity and women’s leadership.
• DEIB Local Action Councils: Focuses on driving change at the local level, aligning the firm’s overall DEIB strategy with the unique needs of our local communities in mind.

Our community efforts also include national and local programs, including “Pay It Forward” which gifts employees $25 each year to help pay it forward in some way, and the CohnReznick Foundation.

How do you ensure that all employees feel welcome, including new hires and interns?

Training shouldn’t just be a week and a half; it’s an ongoing process. First, you are not expected to be an expert in the field right away; we do expect you to ask questions as a way of owning your development. We leveraged the virtual environment brought on by the pandemic as a way to continue to elevate our onboarding process. We embraced the opportunity to provide greater exposure to trainers from across the country with a variety of experience and perspectives and even a live town hall meeting with our CEO, specifically for incoming associates, as he shares his role, vision, information about the firm and answers questions.

We also provide new employees with a CohnReznick buddy and a performance coach. The buddy is usually a first-year associate, or someone not far removed from the onboarding process so they remember exactly what it’s like to be new. The buddy is a lifeline, someone to show you the ropes—you are getting an office connection right off the bat. Your performance coach can be a direct supervisor or someone in a more senior position who helps provide more development coaching and feedback to help you succeed in your role.

Why do you think it’s important to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace environment?

In an inclusive environment where all employees can bring their authentic self to work and feel a sense of belonging, they can ​successfully advance their careers at our firm.

What are you looking for in UD students who want to intern or work at your company? How can they stand out when speaking with your recruiters at our career fairs?

We are looking for highly dedicated students majoring in accounting that are driven by new challenges and growth opportunities. Team players who believe in providing world-class client service and are interested in becoming immersed in various industries. Students who are looking for a work environment that values and promotes camaraderie, collaboration and giving back to the community will thrive in our environment.

We’re seeking candidates with excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team-based culture, are able to learn in a fast-paced environment and possess strong computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Are you currently hiring interns or entry-level employees?

Yes, we have entry-level and internship programs across the country.  Students can find information about careers at CohnReznick by visiting our LinkedIn page at  linkedin.com/showcase/cohnreznick-careers-/ or on our website at cohnreznick.com/careers/campus-opportunities.

Is there anything else UD students should know about your organization?

CohnReznick is one of the largest professional services firms in the U.S. We are a team of professionals driven by a sense of excellence, integrity, commitment to lifelong learning, respect for one another, adaptability and making a difference. We are a network of 2,800 professionals committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and giving back to the communities in which we live and work. We offer varied career paths supported by strong professional development programs and a flexible work environment with competitive benefits.