Inclusivity is “At Our Core”—A Spotlight on One of Our Core Values

Learn how BARR puts its core value of inclusivity into action.

BARR Advisory’s core values set the foundation for everything we do. They’re at the forefront as we forge new partnerships, hire new associates, create new service lines, and more. That’s why we’ve put together “At Our Core”—a blog series that takes a deeper dive into each of BARR’s core values so you can see them in action. We’ve already explored “unparalleled support” and “transparency.” Today’s focus is on our core value “inclusive.”

At BARR, inclusivity is about diversity of people and ideas. It isn’t just a core value—it’s a way of thinking. We promote a welcoming work environment where people respect and value others as individuals with unique ideas and perspectives. So how do BARR associates talk about inclusivity? Let’s hear from a few of them.

“I work at BARR because I was really drawn to its mission and drive around diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Al Neptune, coordinator, people operations. “For me, it’s very important to work in an environment where I feel like I belong and also feel like the ideas I bring to the table are going to be heard. In order for that to happen, you have to be intentional with diversity, equity, and inclusion. BARR has really created a space where everyone feels they have a voice, that other voices are important, and that we can give our ideas regardless of if you’re an associate, manager, director, senior—no matter the title.”

“For me, it’s very important to work in an environment where I feel like I belong and also feel like the ideas I bring to the table are going to be heard.”

If Bronwyn Wilson, associate consultant, cyber risk advisory, had to describe BARR in one word, it would be inclusive. “I chose BARR because of its culture of inclusivity,” she said. “Everyone is a team player.”

“I chose BARR because of its culture of inclusivity. Everyone is a team player.”

BARR’s focus on inclusivity leads to diversity of thought, which Jeff Hoskins, senior consultant, CISO advisory, sees as a differentiator for our clients. “BARR offers a unique perspective because of the diversity of associates we bring in from all different experiences and backgrounds,” he said. “This unique perspective brings value to our clients.”

“BARR offers a unique perspective because of the diversity of associates we bring in from all different experiences and backgrounds. This unique perspective brings value to our clients.”

“Inclusiveness is a value that has always spoken to me,” said Barbara Donatien, senior consultant, cyber risk advisory. In her recent blog post titled, “Celebrating Black History Month in Tech,” she talks about her appreciation for inclusivity and how it is more than just a core value at BARR, it’s a practice.

“BARR has worked on breaking down barriers so more minorities can start a career in cybersecurity via non-traditional talent programs, like Apprenti,” Donatien said. “BARR also partners with education institutions, like Donnelly College, to showcase the cybersecurity industry to students who may not otherwise have ever considered it as a career option.”

“BARR also partners with education institutions, like Donnelly College, to showcase the cybersecurity industry to students who may not otherwise have ever considered it as a career option.”

Forging partnerships like this not only creates a more inclusive company, but helps generate more inclusivity across the cybersecurity industry.

Mel Marra, client service operations manager, sums it up by saying, “BARR’s culture embraces the perspective of understanding that people come from all different walks of life, and welcomes it.”

“BARR’s culture embraces the perspective of understanding that people come from all different walks of life.”

Next, we’ll shine a light on BARR’s core value “simplicity” during part four of our “At Our Core” blog series.