BBOLD, the new Bridgestone employee resource group (ERG) for Black/African American employees and Allies, officially launched on July 16 with double kick-off events. The high energy, engaging events were held at the Bridgestone Operations Center in the morning, and the Bridgestone Tower in the afternoon, with more than 180 total attendees and 124 employees signing up to participate in BBOLD.
"The excitement at both launch events was high and we had a great turnout at both locations," said Ebonee Davis, an Executive Leadership Board Member for BBOLD. "The BBOLD leadership team planned an amazing event that truly inspired our meployees to learn more and join the newest ERG."
Gordon Knapp, Bridgestone Americas CEO and Executive Sponsor for BBOLD, also attended both events and praised the organization's initiative and vision, and expressed enthusiasm for how the group's community platform aligns with the overall Our Way to Serve corporate service goals.
The group was formed in early 2019 by Bridgestone leaders Eric Higgs, TBR&R President; Gealita Greenhill, Executive Director, HR Sales & Marketing; Ebonee Davis, HR Director, Latin America; and Bryant Davis, VP TBR&R Sales. The impetus of the group: shape Bridgestone's efforts to attract and retain the best talent, promote leadership and development, and encourage diversity and inclusion among employees at all levels.
At the recent launch events, Davis took attendees through an interactive ice breaker activity which showcased how employees have commonalities and connections beyond race ethnicities. She also announced BBOLD's "Bold Talk" series as a way for employees and leaders to share their stories and experiences beyond the workplace. Joseph Saoud, President of the Latin America Tire Operations, kicked-off the series at the event by sharing his multicultural background, and insights into his passions and how they drive his leadership perspective and business success.
"BBOLD is an important organization for Bridgestone and I truly feel our group can make an impact within the walls of Bridgestone, and beyond," said Kia Goodwin, BBOLD President. "Through our core platforms of Talent Development, Community Service, and External Outreach, we will work to make a difference in the greater community, while connecting with our fellow employees."
