Authenticity in Action: Erik's Leadership Story as a 2023 Outstanding Role Model

You are the global executive sponsor of the Pride ERG, and you’ve been named to the 2023 Outstanding 100 Executives Role Model List (4 years running). Why is this recognition so important to you?

I cannot overstate the significance of visibility. Particularly in the LGBTQ+ space, the acknowledgment and celebration of diverse identities is paramount. Even as we step into 2024, there’s still a lamentable career fallback for individuals based on who they are and whom they love. It is a reality that underscores the ongoing struggle for acceptance and equality. My call to embrace your authentic self is not merely a platitude. It is a powerful assertion that being 150% yourself always translates to being 150% present and engaged in the professional sphere. In this journey towards authenticity, visibility becomes a beacon for the next generation. To me, it serves as a testament that progress is possible, that embracing my individual identity enhances the workplace, and that by being true to myself, I pave the way for a more inclusive and enriched professional environment.

What do you do as a leader that makes you stand out among your peers?

In a recent workshop I led, I conveyed a strong message: leadership transcends the checkbox mentality; it's about development and empowerment. As a leader, you hold the reins to your career, and the next wave of leadership can carry that torch. Advocacy plays a key role too. I highlighted the importance of offering skills, allyship, mentorship and sponsorship within large organizations. Having advocates who can articulate your strengths is vital for ascending to the next leadership level. Ultimately, my differentiator as a leader is being inspirational and motivational in my approach.

What are you most proud of during your time at Dell?

Every day, I wake up fueled by the prospect of leading people; it's the most exhilarating aspect of my job. The ability to influence and inspire others is a source of profound joy for me. I firmly believe that a leader's fundamental role is to help people grow. Reflecting on my career, the moments I'm most proud of are those when I realized that making mistakes didn't diminish my success. Rather, they became steppingstones to growth and achievement. These instances highlight the importance of creating a culture of resilience and continual improvement – an environment where individuals can learn from their experiences and thrive.

What do you want your legacy to be at Dell?

When considering my legacy at Dell, I envision a transformative impact on the trajectory of inclusion. Our Culture Code has always been pivotal, and I aspire for my legacy to reflect a steadfast commitment to living and breathing that Culture Code every single day. Being a good ally, consistently, is integral to this vision. My legacy is about instilling a culture of inclusivity, sharing insights on how Dell can become more inclusive for everyone.