Rockborne submitted one of the most honest and human responses to this category and highlighted the difficulties surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), particularly for a young business. As stated in their submission, “diversity is far more than a policy in the employee handbook. More than initiative or a training programme. It’s an intrinsic process – something we need to live and breathe; the very foundation of us.” Furthermore, the Rockborne team has been actively sharing resources and knowledge with partners which has influenced the whole data and analytics world and shown Rockborne as leading by example.
“Honest, focused on more than gender and really lives the values rather than ticking boxes.” – Judges’ comment
Founded less than two years ago, Rockborne’s sole purpose is to respond to the data industry’s need for a diverse pool of untapped talent. By striving to give opportunities to a more varied group of graduates and non-graduates to bring new viewpoints and ideas into the data industry, Rockborne had to look closely at how they wanted to set the standard. By aiming to become intrinsically inclusive, the team have purposefully been able to organically attract and retain graduates and transform them into a truly diverse cohort of data professionals.
Through the use of AI tools, simple recruitment processes, training programmes and more, Rockborne has been able to bring DEI concepts such as diversity of thought to the forefront of their recruitment pipelines. The team has made it easy to retain great talent no matter what their background is and the conscious efforts surrounding neurodiversity have improved the overall diversity of the organisation and wider data industry. By prioritising DEI initiatives, Rockborne has embraced untapped talent in a time where recruitment and retention challenges are rocking the industry.
Rockborne believe that diversity is fundamental to any business, which is why they attract graduates through a variety of mediums that tap into different areas of diversity. Additionally, all content created is done so without bias through a sophisticated AI tool. This makes the recruitment process easier and provides access to a wider pool of talent. The team aims to recruit within 2-3 weeks and base decisions on having conversations to match candidates with Rockborne’s own values, culture and ethics. The only requirements during the hiring process are that applicants have an interest in data, a willingness to learn and a can-do attitude. By making the application process as simple and human as possible ensures Rockborne does not lose talent, whatever their gender, disability, education or background, in the process.
Finally, Rockborne assists the wider industry by sharing resources and knowledge with its partners to assist those who historically would not have considered or been able to pursue a future in this industry.
