Mondelez announces commitment to racial equity

CHICAGO - Mondelez International Inc. announced Tuesday a multiyear commitment focused on elevating its existing diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Mondelez said it has committed to double Black representation in U.S. management by 2024. To enable this goal, it has implemented a series of actions across its business, including increasing the presence of underrepresented candidates on interview slates, doubling investment in early career programs, including with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and establishing new mentoring and leadership development programs for people of color.

The plan is designed to accelerate the company's existing diversity and inclusion efforts following extensive consultations between company leaders, colleagues and experts through listening forums and educational sessions, Mondelez said.

"Mondelez International is committed to building a more diverse, inclusive and equitable world, both socially and economically," said Dirk Van de Put, chairman and CEO. "As a global company, we know that diversity in all its forms is a driver of innovation and growth and we must reflect the diversity of our consumers to deliver stronger business performance as we lead the future of snacking."

With 2019 net revenues of about $26 billion, Mondelez is a leader in snack foods with brands such as Oreo, belVita and LU cookies; Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate; Sour Patch Kids candy and Trident gum.