Alethia Jackson has been appointed senior vice president, ESG (environmental, social, and governance), and chief DEI (diversity, equality, and inclusion) officer for the United States by Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. Jackson, who most recently worked as vice president of federal government relations for Walgreens, will take her new position on October 1.

She will report to Holly May, executive vice president and global chief human resources officer, Walgreens Boots Alliance.

May said, "Alethia is a very well-respected leader and I look forward to her advancing our DEI and environmental sustainability initiatives, which are core to our purpose of creating more joyful lives through better health. As evidenced by her leadership in developing our COVID-19 vaccine equity initiatives, Alethia understands the urgency behind health equity, as well as the impact carbon emission reductions, product sustainability and recycling, can have on our planet as well as our overall health.”

Jackson will manage the company's ESG and DEI strategy in the United States, including environmental and product sustainability, community giving, supplier diversity, the company's Leadership Accountability Model, and other initiatives.

She will also advise leadership and communicate with team members about ESG issues, acting as an advisor, bridge builder, and strategic partner while growing WBA’s reputation as a socially responsible employer of choice.

Jackson said, "Throughout my career at Walgreens, I’ve seen firsthand the evolution and progress we’ve made as an employer and corporate leader, as well as with our DEI efforts, sustainability initiatives, and healthcare commitments. Walgreens Boots Alliance is uniquely positioned to continue expanding and advancing our DEI initiatives and making an impact across the pillars of our ESG strategy—healthy communities, healthy and inclusive workplace, healthy planet and sustainable marketplace. I am proud to lead this critical work for the company.”

Una Kent, vice president of ESG International, will continue to lead ESG activities for the international segment, including DEI, in collaboration with Jackson.

Jackson joined Walgreens as a member of the government relations team in 2011. Among her accomplishments is serving as chair of the COVID-19 Vaccine Equity Task Force, which works to guarantee fair vaccine distribution to communities of colour and medically underserved areas.

Source: Walgreens Boots Alliance

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