Jamila Petite is the IBM Global Diversity Leader and Diversity Strategist providing leadership and guidance in the ongoing transformation of IBM’s Global Diversity strategy. In this role, Ms. Petite manages a global staff of diversity professionals in the development, alignment and deployment of programs and policies that maximize IBM’s return on investment. Ms. Petite also provides advice and consul to internal and external partners on strategies, policies and programs related to diversity, work/life, engagement and other human resource topics designed to enhance, stimulate and encourage business and employee growth simultaneously. An expert on “personal branding”, Ms. Petite has lead seminars and panels on HR topics to global audiences across IBM and to external audiences. Ms. Petite is often called upon for interviews in leading industry journals. Ms. Petite holds a BS in International Business and Management Information Systems from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama and a Master of Arts in Human Resources and Industrial Relations from the University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management – Twin Cities.