Finding Your Authentic Self at Fonterra
Reuben McCabe, Marketing Lead for Own Brands at Fonterra, embodies the Co-operative’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Reuben has been with the Co-operative since January 2019, when he joined as part of the Business Graduate program, specialising in marketing.
We spoke with Reuben about his journey at Fonterra, his involvement in the GLOW (Gays, Lesbians, or Whatever) group, and his perspective on fostering an inclusive workplace.
Building a Rewarding Career at Fonterra
Reuben currently works in the Farm Source Business unit. In his role, he looks after key retail brands such as 360 Clothing, Country Mile, and NZAgbiz. One of his recent achievements involved coordinating photoshoots to promote new clothing lines, a project that highlights his passion for contributing to brand growth.
Championing Authenticity with GLOW
Reuben is also part of the GLOW Steering Group, representing Farm Source. GLOW, which stands for Gays, Lesbians, or Whatever, is a group focused on empowering individuals to be their authentic selves at work every day.
Reuben's team emphasises taking tangible actions, and with his marketing background, he often handles employee communications and visuals. He has also represented Fonterra at various external events, such as Rainbow Youth events, and engaging with university students on LGBTQ+ inclusion in the corporate world.
"It's really important to me that everyone feels comfortable to bring their full self to work. The GLOW Team (Gays, Lesbians or Whatever) really celebrates this additional level of diversity within Fonterra" says Reuben.
We rely on our diversity within our workforce to help us understand and operate in various markets around the world. In my Marketing role, a significant aspect involves understanding customers and staying aware of the constantly changing market needs.
Why Inclusion Matters
Reuben believes that it is essential for companies to have internal groups like GLOW for their employees. Fonterra is becoming more diverse each day, and GLOW is just one of the groups within the organisation that highlights and celebrates this diversity. He also believes senior leadership is crucial in fostering an inclusive environment that encourages diverse voices and perspectives to thrive.
"As a multinational company, diversity is ingrained in the core of our business. We acknowledge and celebrate every unique aspect that individuals bring to work each day because it contributes to our collective strength. If you're considering joining Fonterra, rest assured that you can come to work with full confidence, being completely yourself."
A Culture of Acceptance and Growth
When asked about the culture at Fonterra, Reuben describes it as diverse and inclusive. "For a business to reflect these values, it has to come right from the top – and it's been great to see senior leadership getting involved with the 2024 Pride Parade. We rely on our diversity within our workforce to help us understand and operate in various markets around the world. In my Marketing role, a significant aspect involves understanding customers and staying aware of the constantly changing market needs. Having a diverse team is vital because it challenges my current perspectives and encourages creativity."
He encourages anyone considering joining Fonterra to come to work with total confidence, being completely themselves. As he looks towards his future within Fonterra, Reuben envisions leveraging the diverse talents within the company to drive innovation and achieve mutual success.