Meet the Change Maker: Maria Eugenia Arata

People and Culture

Meet the Change Maker: Maria Eugenia Arata

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April 19, 2022

The Clorox Change Makers initiative spotlights people who actively celebrate diversity and promote inclusion, making a positive impact on our business and culture. This week we focus on Maria Eugenia Arata, HR director for LATAM South (Argentina, Chile y Uruguay).

Maria's career has always focused on people. From developing "human-centered leaders" to her current role driving inclusion and diversity across Clorox's LATAM South Region, her passion for people reflects a belief that we all have a unique story, perspective and way to make a difference.

What do inclusion and diversity mean to you and why do they matter?

We're all unique individuals, and I believe these differences empower us to be better people and make our lives richer. We're stronger when we include everyone - we get new perspectives, we feel respected and valued, and, in turn, we can perform our best.

What's an accomplishment of the I&D work in our LATAM region that you're proud of?

Each of our LATAM regions, or "clusters," has its own I&D committee that drives plans locally while considering regional nuances. For example, some cultures may be more conversative and at earlier stages in their I&D journey, whereas some places are further along and even have laws in place to ensure diverse candidates - like those with disabilities or nonbinary talent - are considered and hired. Each of these teams does great work, but I'll share one example from Chile. Less than three years ago, we didn't even have an I&D committee in Chile, and today it's helped Clorox get recognized by a third-party organization called Pride as one of the most inclusive employers in the country! The team has even been asked to mentor other companies. From zero presence to being a mentor in three years - it's really inspiring to see how we can all make a difference.

How have you seen your I&D work help a business?

Diverse talent can evolve our thinking. It helps us be more innovative, both in how we work and approach challenges to the products we make for our diverse set of consumers. Diversity makes us better in our careers, teaching us how to work with people who come with a wide range of experiences and how to collaborate in a way that considers multiple perspectives. Imagine trying to solve a big challenge with a bunch of people exactly like you! When we embrace I&D, we also contribute to the communities where we do business.

What has helped enable you to be a make a difference on our I&D journey?

I try to lead by example and be authentic, be empathetic with others. I really believe in our strategy and purpose to champion people to be well and thrive every single day, and I want to be part of this. I feel I´m in the right moment and in the right place at a company that embraces I&D.

Do you have tips on bringing inclusivity into the everyday?

Be empathetic and listen to others. Everyone has a unique story, so get to know it and connect on a new level, which will pay off in more effective and impactful teams.

I&D at Clorox

To live our purpose and values, we must build a workplace where every person can feel respected, valued and fully able to participate in our Clorox community. We aim to lead by example, at every level within the company, and to continually challenge ourselves to do better. Learn more about our inclusion and diversity efforts here.

People and Culture

inclusion & diversity

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