Steph Sands

Head of Diversity & Inclusion, Capgemini, Sydney

With the support of an exceptional CEO and Executive team, I get to work on some exceptional programs to ensure there is no reason why people don't feel they belong at Capgemini

What drew you to a career at Capgemini originally and how has the company changed since?

Capgemini is a leader in what we do and are constantly moving towards the edge of what is possible. I have worked in Digital for many years in the advertising industry and wanted to look at more progressive technology that could really help people. The biggest change I’ve seen over the last 3 years is a solid commitment to increasing our diversity and inclusion efforts from our Executive.


People. Lots of people. My days tend to be very varied. I can be working with a client on their projects, or on our people initiatives like the Grad or Return to Work programs, or meeting with interesting people who work in areas such as inclusive design, or Diversity & Inclusion, or AI and ethics. One constant theme though is my commitment to our Diversity and inclusion efforts. I talk to a lot of people in my role!

Tell us about your work life harmony at Capgemini?

I have a very active volunteer and community life outside Capgemini and it helps me have other experiences to bring back into my work here. I think it’s really important to take time out for yourself and other interests in your life. We are very privileged to have an employer that values employees who can manage their flexibility and self-care to build richer experiences.

Describe your current role at Capgemini

I’m currently a Director in the Customer Experience Technology service line who are working on an internal transformation project to be announced very soon! I’m also a Diversity and Inclusion champion and I’m involved in many of our global and local initiatives. From leading and ensuring OUTFront (our LGBTQI employee group) remains relevant and visible, to contributing to the work of Women At Capgemini; to just talking to different people in the business about inclusion and what that means and looks like and how they can be more inclusive.

How would you describe the culture at Capgemini?

They say culture can be described by the way it makes you feel. For me, when I come to work, I feel I can bring my whole self to work and I don’t have to hide anymore. I feel safe to explore opportunities that may be on the edge of what we do now but will be important tomorrow. I feel valued for the opinions and thoughts I bring that may be different to others and I feel I can advocate for people in this world that haven’t necessarily been included in the past.

What has been the most empowering moment in your Capgemini career journey?

I feel empowered most of my time here at Capgemini. Being respected and valued for advocating for diversity and belonging and being able to represent Australia in the first official marching group entry of Capgemini at World Pride 2019 in New York are just two highlights.

What are you passionate about in your role?

Celebrating our differences and helping everyone feel like they belong. Being someone who can bridge technology and human rights for positive futures.


I used to think of work as a means to an end. My sense of purpose came from my community activism and fighting for (and achieving) legal and human rights such as marriage equality. I started my working career in an environment where it wasn’t safe to be who I was, so it took a long time for me to realise that work (your day job) could actually be part of your sense of purpose in the world. Now, with the support of an exceptional CEO and Executive team, I get to work on some exceptional programs to ensure there is no reason why people don’t feel they belong at Capgemini.

What have you gained from working at Capgemini from a career perspective?

I have learnt to be bold in my thinking, my approach and my ambition.

What are 3 words you’d use to describe Capgemini as an employer?

Supportive, Empowering, Generous

How has Capgemini’s global approach to diversity helped you in your career so far?

You are the architect of your own positive future. In my case the freedom to be your true self at work, to think outside the square and to pitch your own ideas for the future is empowering and engaging.

Steph Sands