The Red Lion Institute
Sharmila Fowler
Founder, Coach, Consultant
I apply a holistic approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion that encompasses multiple stakeholders within organizations, internally as well as externally. My passion is to understand human behavior whether it is in the workplace, the marketplace, or the community. During my 20+ year career, I have always focused on creating business value through the lens of diversity, inclusion and culture.
In the workplace, I have worked with HR and talent teams to develop plans to attract, develop, advance and retain diverse employees. I also hold the “DEI in the Workplace” Certification from USF’s Muma College of Business.
In the marketplace, I have worked with marketing departments, advertising agencies, and media firms to successfully connect with diverse customers.
In the community, I have worked closely with diverse industry and non-profit organizations to build long-term partnerships, provide advocacy, and improve visibility of underrepresented groups.
My specialties include:
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy Development
• Multicultural Marketing
• Marketing Research & Insights
• Global Business Development
• Coaching, Consulting, and Training
• Thought Leadership and Storytelling
My key strengths are the following:
• Future-focused
• Strategic thinker
• Creative/innovative
• Relationship-builder
• Team-oriented
• Effective communicator
In addition, I have written reports and articles, conducted training workshops (such as Unconscious Bias and Cultural Immersions), and presented at numerous conferences on the topics of multicultural marketing, research, diversity/equity/inclusion and gender diversity in particular.
Currently I am on the Board of Directors for the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce (along with both the DEI Committee and the Women in Business Committee), a member of Nielsen’s External Advisory Council for Diversity, and VP Membership/Board Member for ASCEND Midwest. I have also spent years as a Board Member and Officer of the 3AF (Asian American Advertising Federation) and as a National Board Member of ASCEND.
Finally, I am a Master Certified Professional Coach. Throughout my career I have been supporting students and professionals in planning, powering, and pivoting their careers through career coaching. I provide coaching through a diversity lens to enhance career progression by reflecting on cultural identity to enhance cultures of inclusion and maximize feelings of belonging.
sharmila@redlioninstitute.com | (630) 215-7631