Elena Richards is a Principal and the Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at KPMG LLP, she has led the effort to engage all partners and employees in DEI learning. She was integral in incorporating a DEI concentration as part of the firm’s quarterly Ethics & Integrity requirement. Additionally, she launched the National DEI Speakers Series, which provides in-depth conversations on DEI topics. The series is intended to encourage continuous learning and foster an empathetic and inclusive workplace culture. Elena’s leadership is underpinned by KPMG’s Accelerate 2025 initiative, a bold five-year strategy launched in 2020 to ensure that more underrepresented talent choose KPMG as their employer of choice, build careers at KPMG, and advance to leadership positions within the firm.
Elena’s efforts to advance DEI are based on giving all people a voice, encouraging connections and ensuring a consistent experience for everyone. As Elena travels to KPMG offices and firm events, she makes a concerted effort to connect in-person with local partners and employees, whether it be one-on-one or in small group settings. These opportunities have been the foundation for building genuine and authentic relationships while also allowing her to role model KPMG’s culture and values.
Favorite Quote: Allow myself to make mistakes because mistakes are how we learn and grow. - Elena Richards