Dannie Phelan
Managing Director
WHY COMMIT TO GENDER EQUITY?
As Managing Director of The Capability Alliance, I’m passionate about advancing gender equity both within our organisation and the wider community. I believe that diverse, inclusive workplaces are key to creating an innovative and sustainable future. This belief inspired me to join CEOs for Gender Equity—a cause that aligns perfectly with our vision and values.
At The Capability Alliance, we bring organisational strategies to life through capability development programs that turn goals into action. Our work focuses on crafting learning strategies, providing managed learning services, and building capability frameworks that support sustainable career pathways and equitable, future-ready workforces. We also create customised micro-credentials, mentoring programs, and eLearning courses that empower continuous growth and development. By embedding diversity and inclusion principles into everything we do, we ensure that our learning experiences make a real difference.
Joining CEOs for Gender Equity felt like a natural step for me, because I see it as an opportunity for senior leaders to drive positive change. Our actions set the tone for our organisations and demonstrate our belief that gender equity isn't just about policies; it’s about building a culture where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to contribute. Being part of this initiative lets me connect with other leaders who share a commitment to challenging the status quo and fostering workplaces where gender equity is part of their DNA.
Attending the Diversify Nordics Summit in Oslo recently was a meaningful moment in my journey. It allowed me to explore fresh ideas around diversity and inclusion and learn from global leaders who are setting the pace for gender equity. This experience reaffirmed my dedication to shaping workplaces where diversity is truly seen as a source of strength.
My first steps towards strengthening gender equity at the Capability Alliance, involved taking a close look at best practice learning design principles through the lens of equity and inclusion. We are also committed to expanding our impact through industry-wide partnerships that amplify our collective efforts and are working with our partners to build a community of practice where organisations can learn about sustainable approaches and grow together.
As CEOs, we have a unique role in shaping organisational culture and driving lasting change. When we champion gender equity, we send a clear message to our teams, clients, and partners that inclusion is a top priority. The research is clear—diverse teams make better decisions, drive creativity, and solve problems more effectively. In today's complex business landscape, tapping into a variety of perspectives and skills through equitable and inclusive practices is essential.
Promoting gender equity is more than just the right thing to do; it’s also a smart business strategy. Companies that make it a priority are better positioned to attract top talent, retain high performers, and build stronger client relationships. When people see that gender equity is championed at the top, it fosters a culture of trust and engagement, leading to higher productivity and satisfaction.
Ultimately, my commitment to CEOs for Gender Equity is rooted in a vision of a future where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. By making gender equity a core part of our business strategy at The Capability Alliance, we aim to be a positive force in our community, working to build a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and fair.