Valley Bank is committed to creating a culture that ensures their associates, customers, and community members can bring their authentic selves and perspectives to the table. Leading this charge for Valley is Tammy Mata, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer and Director of Human Resources.

In her leadership role, Tammy has spearheaded and executed on a number new DE&I initiatives, realigned Valley’s resources, and focused the bank’s efforts on shared goals and objectives. She believes great cultures are built when an organization chooses to pursue excellence not perfection, and she has used that mindset to provide Valley’s associates with resources and opportunities to grow and succeed. She has also played a key role in the creation of Valley’s Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) Council, and has been steadfast in promoting Valley’s commitment to ESG initiatives.

Tammy took the time recently to share her insight into what it takes for an organization like Valley to embrace a DE&I culture. She also offers a piece of advice to her peers looking to make a shift in the culture of their organization.

Despite offering countless benefits, fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace does come with a handful of challenges. What are some of the common reasons why employers feel hesitant to embrace a multinational environment?

I believe that for the most part, employers have embraced a multinational environment and have the intention to foster and maintain an inclusive and equitable workplace. The challenge comes with continuing the same level of commitment and focus on DEI over a sustained period of time. Over the years there have been false starts, obstacles, and challenges.  What we know now is that DEI is a marathon not a sprint. We have to continuously evolve our initiatives and programming to meet the needs of our employees which requires courage and commitment. It is only through our sustained commitment that we can maintain and foster inclusive work environments where different experiences and identities are welcomed, encouraged, and celebrated.

“We have to continuously evolve our efforts to meet the needs of our employees which requires courage and commitment. It is only through our sustained commitment that we can maintain and foster inclusive work environments where different experiences and identities are welcomed, encouraged, and celebrated.”

In a diverse workplace, each person has a unique set of strengths and skills which others can learn from. Everyone should be given a chance to grow and learn every day when they are exposed to unfamiliar cultures, working styles, and perspectives. Your views on this.

I completely agree. We should all strive to be better versions of ourselves and continue learning about the experiences of others. There are so many studies that validate that diversity and inclusive work environments yields better results and outcomes. I personally learn so much from my teammates who see the world through a different lens than mine, add their expertise and perspectives, and help me to see things that I may miss. 

What would be your piece of advice for your fellow peers and leaders? 

Pursue excellence not perfection. I believe in giving my best and looking for the best in the people I work with. To that end, I make sure to create space for people to do their best AND to make mistakes. We will never achieve perfection—but we can all achieve personal and professional excellence.