Publicis Groupe’s Jonathan Akwue Recognised as Top BAME Leader in Tech

Jonathan Akwue, regional client lead at Publicis Groupe, has today been announced as one of the top 100 most influential Black, Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) leaders in the UK tech sector. The list, produced by board appointments firm Inclusive Boards, will be released today at the House of Commons as part of the official launch of the Inclusive Tech Alliance.

The Alliance has been set up in response to new research by Inclusive Boards that will show the sector is significantly lagging behind others on diversity within senior leadership. The founder of the Inclusive Tech Alliance (ITA), Samuel Kasumu, who is also a member of the Prime Minister's Race Disparity Advisory Board said: “Technology is increasingly playing an important role in driving our economy and there is a great need to ensure that everyone can fully participate in the jobs and opportunities technology brings. Jonathan and others featured in this list today are role models that will inspire the next generation, and hopefully help to improve diversity within the sector.”

With over 20 years multi-disciplinary experience, Jonathan’s career has increasingly focused on data-driven marketing and media. He works with global technology companies such as Samsung, alongside partners including Facebook and Google, helping to spearhead digital innovation and marketing transformation at global and regional market levels. 

“Receiving this acknowledgement is a real honour. Growing up on the streets of South London, I never dreamed that I’d have the opportunity to work with some of the world’s biggest brands, utilising cutting edge digital technologies. That’s why I’m passionate about creating opportunities for others from similar backgrounds to do even greater things.” 

Those featured in the top 100 include senior leaders from Facebook, LinkedIn, IBM, Twitter and financial services firm EY. Judges include Tim Sawyer CBE (COO, Innovate UK), Sandra Kerr OBE (Race Equality Director, Business in the Community), and Catherine Muirden (Director of HR, Co-Op Foods).