2022 Top 10 Influential Women In Diversity DIVERSITYGLOBAL RECOGNIZES LEADERS IN DEI

Cynthia Williams Develops Inclusive Behaviors at Brown Forman


Currently the Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion at Brown Forman, Cynthia Williams has been instrumental in integrating Human Resources diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives into the organization’s strategic goals. One example of a successful initiative is the Diversity and Inclusion Learning Journey. The learning content was developed in support of driving awareness, and building skills and competencies that would lead to behavioral changes in the DEI space. The content was also aligned with key priorities identified within the diversity strategy. Cynthia designed the experiences as intentional towards building inclusive leadership behaviors that enable the ability to achieve goals.

To drive DEI, Cynthia engages others in the process of developing and implementing initiatives that drive inclusion through ERGs, Councils, HR Business Partners, and leaders. She created an education strategy to build awareness, skills, and capabilities to demonstrate inclusive behaviors. Cynthia also developed partnerships with Human Resources to increase diversity representation at all levels through the talent management process. She also holds diverse talent succession planning sessions and development programs for women and people of color.


  • Favorite Quote: We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color. — Maya Angelou