Join us for an engaging talk as part of the UC Business School's Thought Leadership Series. Doors open from 5.45pm for a 6.00pm start. This is a free event, with food and drinks provided at approximately 7pm following the session.

Guest Speakers

Associate Professor Remi Trudel, from Boston University, USA
Professor Michelle (Mikki) Rae Hebl, from Rice University, USA
Associate Professor Clifford Lewis, from Charles Sturt University, Australia

"We only hire the best people"...but how true is that? How often does this sentiment come up in organisations or hiring discussions? Of course, every organisation wants to hire the 'best' people, but who decides what is 'best' and what benefits can alternative hires bring to workplace culture, productivity and growth?

In this discussion three internationally renowned researchers on diversity and inclusivity will discuss their perspectives on 'meritocracy policies'. We take a deeper perspective into understanding hiring practices and workplace inclusivity in a manner that is not tokenistic but driven by building the best organisation by being purposefully different.

Each speaker will begin with a few words about their perspectives and research followed by a panel of experts to discuss issues of meritocracy and diversity practices in business, workplaces, communities and government.

More about the speakers:

Associate Professor Remi Trudel
Associate Professor Remi Trudel brings world-leading expertise in consumer decision-making, social responsibility, and behavioural science. He provides a powerful platform for organisations wanting to align purpose with performance. His work helps businesses understand how consumers actually make ethical choices, what drives pro-social behaviour, and how firms can create competitive advantage through meaningful sustainability strategies. His visit to the University of Canterbury creates a unique opportunity for Canterbury businesses to collaborate on research-led approaches to brand trust, consumer well-being, and responsible innovation.
Professor Michelle (Mikki) Rae Hebl
Professor Mikki Hebl is the Martha and Henry Malcolm Lovett Professor of Psychological Sciences at Rice University. She is one of the world’s most respected scholars on workplace discrimination, inclusion, and organisational behaviour. She brings practical, evidence-based strategies for improving workplace culture, leadership capability, and employee engagement, areas increasingly tied to business performance and employer reputation. Her visit as an Erskine Fellow to the University presents a rare opportunity for businesses to engage with cutting-edge thinking on inclusive leadership, DEI strategy effectiveness, and organisational transformation grounded in behavioural science.
Associate Professor Clifford Lewis
Associate Professor Clifford Lewis specialises in service marketing, place branding, and cultural consumption, offering businesses fresh insight into how communities, cities, and regions build distinctive value propositions. His work is particularly relevant for tourism operators, regional development agencies, and organisations wanting to understand multicultural markets. His time at UC offers pathways for co-designed research on visitor experience, regional identity, and service-sector innovation, all crucial for sustaining growth in a competitive global environment.

UC photographers will be present on the day. These images may be used by the University of Canterbury in the future for online or print publications and may be placed on official UC social media channels. The event will also be recorded, and attendees may be visible. If you have any questions or concerns regarding photography, please email communications@canterbury.ac.nz.

Contact the host of UC Business School's Thought Leadership Series | The Meritocracy Paradox: The Benefits of a Diverse Workforce