Tammy Mata, Senior Vice President, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Valley Bank, leads the development, delivery, and communication of a holistic DEI strategy. She created space for Valley associates to bring their authentic selves to work by providing multiple opportunities to learn, connect, and share experiences. She oversaw the launch of the Valley Associate Resource Group (ARG) program with three resource groups for Black, Hispanic, and women associates. This year, Valley’s ARG program was expanded to include the Asian and LGBTQ+ communities. Tammy also launched an internal DEI site to provide a hub for employee engagement and to provide the tools needed to embrace different perspectives and experiences.
Tammy also collaborated with Valley’s leadership to launch the DEI Governance Framework, to enhance the bank’s ability to use DEI as the lens through which it develops and executes on its business objectives. The structure includes the DEI Leadership Advisory Council, chaired by the CEO. To drive change, Tammy listens to associates in order to understand their perspectives, needs, and experiences to engage in meaningful dialogue. She believes true listening creates space for greater understanding of the systemic inequalities and experiences of historically marginalized communities and the ability to make meaningful change.